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REFERENCES 


1 Chaz y Lake. 

2 Upper  Chateaugay  Lake. 

3 Ragged  Lake. 

4 Lion  Mt. 

5 Meacham  Lake. 

6 Lower  St.  Regis  Lake. 

7 Upper  St.  Regis  Lake 

8 Whiteface  Mt. 

9 Placid  Lake. 

10  Lower  Saranac  Lake. 

11  Upper  Saranac  Lake. 

12  Round  Lake. 

13  Pitch-off  Mt. 

14  Raven  Hill. 

15  Mt.  Marcy. 

16  Mt.  Seward. 

17  Mt.  Morris. 

18  Big  TupperLake. 

19  Cranberry  Lake. 

20  Bonaparte  Lake- 

21  Ausable  Ponds. 

22  Mt.  Henderson. 

23  Dix  Peak. 

24  SandanonaMt. 

25  Little  T upper  Lake. 

26  Sanford  Lake. 

27  Long  Lake. 

28  Smith’s  Lake. 

29  Owl’s  Head  Mt. 

30  Albany  Lake. 

31  Mt.  Goodenow. 

32  Boreas  Mt. 

33  Beach’s  Lake. 

34  Blue  Mt.  Lake. 

35  Blue  Mt. 

36  Chain  Lake. 

37  Paradox  Lake. 

38  Mt,  Pharaoh. 

39  SehroonLake. 

40  Raquette  Lake. 

41  Twitchell  Lake. 

42  Fourth  Lake. 

43  Indian  Lake. 

44  Brant  Lake. 

45  Woodhull  Reservoir, 

46  Lake  Pleasant. 

47  Lake  Piseco. 

The  Crosses  indicate  the 
locations  of  some  of  the 
Forest  Resorts,  etc. 


- 


Descriptive  Guide 

TO  THE 


TO 

|:E'V  ■ V’  - . , « 

SARATOGA  SPRINGS,  SCHROON  LAKE,  LAKES 
LJJZERNE,  GEORGE  AND  CHAMPLAIN,  THE 
I AUSABLE  CHASM,  THE  THOUSAND 
ISLANDS,  MASSENA  SPRINGS 
! AND  TRENTON  FALLS. 

i ' v.:  'v 

v 

By  E.  R.  WALLACE. 


REVISED  AND  CORRECTED  BY  THE  AUTHOR. 


CONTAINING-  NUMEROUS  MAPS  AND  ILLUSTRATIONS. 


NEW  YORK : 

THE  AMERICAN  NEWS  COMPANY. 
SYRACUSE,  N.  Y. : 

WAVERLEY  PUBLISHING  COMPANY. 

1875. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1875,  by 
E.  R.  WALLACE, 

In  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress  at  Washington,  D.  C. 


Truair,  Smith  & Co., 
Stereotypers  and  Printers,  Syracuse,  N,  Y, 


°II7.7W7  S3 

wirvhr 


A LODGE  IN  THE  WILDERNESS. 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 


A Lodge  in  the  Wilderness—  Frontispiece.  Page. 

Trenton  Falls 7 

“ 8 

An  Inhabitant  of  John  Brown’s  Tract 13 

On  the  Road  to  Arnold’s 14 

Arnold’s 14 

Careless  Shooting — Scene  on  Seventh  Lake. 21 

Smith’s  Lake  from  Smith’s  Rock.  (Sketched  by  Frank  Bolles.) 40 

White’s  Hotel,  Massena  Springs.  N.  Y 59 

Meacham  Lake  7q 

Chazy  Lake  and  Lion  Mountain 70 

Ferguson  House,  Malone,  N.  Y 81 

Scene  of  Naval  Battle  on  Lake  Champlain 86 

Fouquet’s  Hotel,  Plattsburgh,  N.  Y 89 

St.  Regis  Lake — Paul  Smith’s 103 

Birmingham  Falls 103 

Upper  Saranac  Lake— Prospect  House 108 

Devil’s  Pulpit— Big  Tupper  Lake 108 

Lower  Saranac  Lake — Martin’s 119 

Saranac  River— Bartlett’s 119 

The  Adirondacks  in  the  Olden  Times 123 

John  Brown’s  Grave  at  North  Elba . 130 

Summit  of  Whiteface  Mountain 130 

Big  Falls,  near  “Wilmington  Pass,” 132 

Mount  Marcy— Wolf  Pond 132 

Placid  Lake 133 

Rainbow  Falls 138 

Chapel  Pond 141 

Saw-Teeth  Mountain— Upper  Ausable  Pond 143 

Ausable  Chasm  from  Table  Rock 150 

Pitch-Off  Mountain— Edmond’s  Pond 167 

Indian  Pass,  from  Henderson  Lake 107 

Schroon  Lake 160 

“Mother  Johnson’s,”  at  Raquette  Falls 169 

Ondawa  Hotel,  Schroon  Lake,  N.  Y 170 

Fort  William  Henry  Hotel,  Lake  George 174 

Congress  Spring  and  Park  and  Columbian  Spring,  Saratoga,  N.  Y 177 

Empire  Spring,  Saratoga,  N,  Y.  ...*!..  180 

Remingtons’  Rifle  and  Pistol  Armory,  Ilion,  N.  Y 198 

Raquette  Lake  and  Murray’s  Island 201 

Blue  Mountain  and  Blue  Mountain  Lake 201 

Buttermilk  Falls 208 

(Owji’s  Head  Mt.,  Long  Lake 208 


INDEX 


PAGE.  J PAGE 

Adirondack  Railroad 183  Appendix,  (Outfits,  Guides,  &c.)  238 

Adirondack  Park 227-232  | Addenda  follows  Appendix. 


DIVISIONS. 


First — John  Brown’s  Tract,  Os- 
wegatchie  and  Grass  River 


Regions 7-59 

Second-  Chateaugay  and  St. 

Regis  Woods  . . 61-  85 

Third — Saranac  Region  ...  86-160 


Fourth — Adirondack,  Hudson 


River,  Raquette  and  Long 

Lake  Regions 161-193 

Fifth — Garoga,  Pleasant  and 

Piseco  Lakes  Regions.  194-200 

Sixth— Raquette  Waters 201-232 

Seventh— Appendix,  (Outfits, 
Guides,  Routes,  &c.) 238-273 


FALLS. 


Bog 54 

Big  132-13? 

Bushnell’s 137 

Beaver  Meadow 138 

Boquet 155 

Buttermilk — 207 

Bog  River 230 

Chateaugay 82 

Corinne  145 

Clifford 135 

Eagle.  31 

Gothic  Mt.  Cascades 145 

Hign 10 

Hull’s  136 

Jamestown. 54 

Kent’s '. 87 

Lyon’s 24 

Little 112-132 

Minnehaha 145 


Moody 54 

Prospect 10 

Phelps 137 

Percefield 56 

Panther  Gorge  Cascade.  142 

Russell 138 

Rainbow  138 

Roaring  Brook  (Beede’s) 139 

Round  Pond 230 

Raquette 217 

Saranac 99 

Stark’s 53 

Stile’s 146 

Sherburne 136 

South  Inlet 202 

Trenton 7 

Upper  Hull’s 146 

White’s..... 145 


Ausable  Chasm 

Flume  (Wilmington). 

“ (Keene) 

Hunter’s  Pass 

Indian  Pass 


GORGES. 


147 
132 
141 
163 
167  l 


Long  Pond  and  Pitch-Off  Mts 158 

Panther  Gorge 142 

Poke-O-Moonshine 152-156 

Trap  Dyke  (McMartin) 168 

Wilmington  Notch 132 


LAKES  AND  PONDS. 


Albany 38-39 

Ampersand  P 118 

Ausable  P (Upper  and  Lower) 141 

Addison.  P 228 

Adirondack 158 

Andrew 166 

Avalanche  168 

Anthony  P [3] 213 

Brandreth’s  (Beach’s) 45 


Big  P 

Barsout  P 

. . 228 

Barnum  P 

...  102 

Big  (East)  Pine  P 

..  106 

Blue  P 

...  106 

Big  Rock 

...  10 

Beaver  Meadow  P 

..  228 

Big  Moose 

...  20 

Bug 

...  22 

iNDEX. 


Ill 


Brantingham 

Beaver 

Beaver  Dam  P 

Bog  

Burnt 


27 

37 

41 

36 

Big  Rock  P (Rock  L) 37 

Bisby. 

Bonaparte  4® 

Bay  P [2] 66-105 

Booitree  P 6b 

BuckP  [2] 71-101 

Rranch  P 75 

Bradley  P.. 34 

Black  P 165 

Big  Clear  P 103 

hog  P 100 

BearP..  100 

Big  Green  P 109 

Big  Square  P 126 

Big  Long  P 128 

Blue  P 128 

Big  Wolfe  P 129 

Bullet  P (Round) 141 

Boreas  P 142 

Black  P 155  I 

Brant 171 

Bartlett’s  P — 171 

Belden  P [2] 176 

Blue  Mountain loo 

Bellows 196 

Bottle  P 207 

Bridge  Brook  P 221 

Big  Trout  P 223 

Canachagala 19 

Cascade 20 

Crystal 25 

Crooked  [2] 27, 36-229 

Chub 12 

Charley  Pond  [2] 42-77 

Cranberry  (Oswegatchie) 50-51 

Curtis  P 51 

Chandler  P. 54 

Crooked  P ■ • • 54 

Catamount 56 

Chain 74,  175<184 

Clear 36 

rm  J 37,  41,  51,  54,  71, 

Clear  P [9] -j  101,  160;  162_212 

Crescent  P 186 

Cedar  [3]  186 

Cat  Mt.  TP  228 

Cow-Horn  P 228 

Crystal  P 228 

Cracker  P 229 

Cold  Spring  P 229 

Colvin 228 

Canada  W [5] 187 

CatP 106 

Chateaugay  (Lower)  83 

“ (Upper) 84-99 

Chazy 98 

Colby  P 117 

Copperas  P 132 

Conery  P 133 

Chapel  P (Echo  L) .140 

Colden 168 

Calamity  P 168 

Crane  P 171 


PAGE. 

Chain  P [6] 223-225 

Catlin 176 

Cascade  P 191 

Cranberry  P [2] 106-203 

CaryP £07 

Center  P 221-226 

Deer  P [3] 38,  56-176 

Davis  P ...  50 

Duck  P [41 65,  126,  221-229 

Deer  Fly  P 77 

Dry  Channel  P 106-128 

Delia 176 

Dawson’s  P [2]  217-228 

Eagle  [2] 22-190 

Eleven  [11] 33 

East  P [2] 46-106 

Egg  P 56 

East  Branch  P 65 

Elbow  P 75-77 

Ely 226 

Eagle  P 75 

Edmund  P [2] 158 

Eckford  Chain 192 

Eldon 202 

Fulton  Chain  (8  Lakes) j 13-16 

First  (N.  Branch) 20 

Fish-Pole  P 228 

Francis 32 

Fish  P [2] 56,  104-106 

Fourth  P 52-^26 

Folingsby’s,  Jr.,  P 68-107 

Floodwood  P 106,  126-129 

Fish  (Canada,  Bym) 196 

Fonda  202 

Five  P [5] 228 

Forked  (Big) 205 

Forked  (Little) 206 

Folingsby’s  P 218 

Gibb’s 16 

Gull 37-229 

Grass  P [2] 52-113 

Goose  P [2] 65-171 

Green  P (Gourd)...  75 

Gull  P [2] 171-221 

“ 14  10 

Grass  P 228 

GlasbyP .* 226 

GalP 229 

Grassy  P 229 

George 172-173 

Goodenow  P 176 

Garoga  [2] 196 

Green 196 

Good  Luck 197 

Grampus 213 

Graves  P 226 

Hell  Gate  [2L 15 

Harrington  P 41 

Horseshoe  P [3] 56,  75-222 

Hoel  P 128 

HopeP 101 

Harkness 166 

Hunter’s  P 166 

Hornet  P [2] 226 

Henderson 167 

Harris 175 

Hamilton 195 


High  P [2], 


.206-223 


IV 


INDEX. 


PAGE 

Handsome  2131 

Hitchin’s  223 

Jcdk’s 10-n 

Jock’s  P 


55 


Jones  P 102-105 

Jenkins  P 2J1 


Little  Moose. 


Lime  Kiln  •••••  21 

Loon 34,  75-101 

Utile  Burnt. 

Little  Round.' 


Little  Trout 


223 


Little  Salmon  

Loon  101 

Little  Clear  P 100 

Little  Green  P ••  • {00 

Little  Long  P 109_11n^ 

Li  tie  Duck  P.. {01 

Lower  Saranac 1{{) 

Little  Rock {0 

LittLeBear  .{" 

Lonesome  P {i® 

Lower  Fish  Creek  P {^6 

Little  Square  P {"” 

Little  Wolf  P 12« 


Lead  P 


Long  P [4].  . .. 169, 176,  225-229 

Lily  Pad  P [2] 


Lii  tie  Long 
Lewey 
Long  . 

Lost. . 
Luzerne 


101-176 
195 
195 
208 
228 
182 

LiitFe "Falls  p”.‘ 228 

Morse - 

Minnow  {^0 

Moose  

Morehouse.  i|{ 

Moshier  P [3] ■ ■ • • ■ • 33 

...  , t.  r-n  134,35,  44,51,  75,  106, 

Mud  P [7],-. . j 126, 163,  (Elk)  212 

Mud  m ■ 77,196-224 

Massawepie j?? 

Meacham {0 

Macauley  P {{{. 

McKensie’s  P {{.' 

Middle  Fish  Creek  P 126 

Mud  Turtle  P {*' 

Mountain  P [2] I®!-!?, 

Mohican  P 20c 

Murray  P [2] ■■■•  204 

Moose  P [2]  H3  «06 

Mohegan  P.  213 

Middle  P 223 

Mt.  Joseph .-l(b 

North 1°-{1 

Nick’s  228 

Nick’s  Deer  P 228 

Nisr^Gr.  . 

Nash’s  (Bennett’s  P)  (Mirror L.  )..  133 


PAGE. 

North  P [2] 171,223 

New  P [2]  ..  155-207 

Oval  P (Darn  Needle) 52 

Oregon  P 75-101 

Ochre  P HO 

Osgood  P 105 

Ox  Bow 195,  198-128 

Olmstead  P 228 

Oven 229 

Otter 191 

Owl’s  Head  P — 212 

Otter  P - 226 

Panther  .......  19 

Pine  P [3] 56,  118  -128 

Placid 133 

Paradox  P - 133 

Preston  P [3] . 167 

Paradox 169 

Pharaoh • - 171 

Pickwacket,  P 176 

Partlow  229 

Pond,  with  a rock  in  it 106 

Pleasant  [2] s 195-221 

Piseco.  195-197 

Pilsburry  187,  195-197 

Pine 10-196 

Plumbley  P - 206 

Plumadore  P 77-101 

Panther  P 226 

Quebec  P......  167 

Raquette  . ..  - 201 

Red  Horse  Chain 86-37 

Rose  P - 38 

Rainbow , -• - 75-99 

Round  P [5] - -75,  99,  176-231 

Raquette  P (Lough  Neak) 57-129 

Ragged  (Salmon) 78 

Round  [2] • - H9-195 

Rollins  P J29 

Rainbow  P 128 

River  P }2? 

Roger’s  P 171 

Rock 184,  175-191 

Rich 176 

Rock  P [4] 104,  191,  207-213 

South..  10-11 

Second  (N.  Branch) 20 

Sand - 31 

Salmon  [2]  36-44 

SlimP.  38 

Shingle  Shanty 3« 

Smith’s 10 

South  P ...  46 

Silver  P 61 

Iprtag  p a;  jos-® 

Silver  [2] 103-?n! 

St.  Regis  (Lower).. : {04 

“ (Upper) {08 

St.  Regis  P 108-  09 

Saranac  (Lower) {46 

“ (Upper) 128 

Spectacle  P [5] ....Wt-Mt 

Slang  {2» 

Sanford {bb 

Schroon {ir 

Stephens  P m 


INDEX. 


V 


Stink  [3] 

Spy 

Snag  

Shedd 

Shallow 

Sargent  P [3] 

Sutton  P 

Slush  (Mud)  P 

Salmon  P 

Square  P 

Spruce  Grouse  -P. . 

Silver  Leaf  P 

Simon’s  P 

Slender  P 

South  P . . . 

Slim  P (Big) 

“ (Little).  .. 

Stony  P 

Simon’s  P (Big). . . 

“ (Little). 

Sperry  P 

Tamarack  P 

Toad  P 

Twitchell 

Thayer’s 

Twin  Rock 

Terror 

Tooley  P 

Trout  P [2] 

Twin  P [2] 


PAGE. 

....  196 
....  198 
....  10 
. 202 
...  203 
193-204 
....  207 
....  107 
...  191 
....  101 
....  228 
....  228 
. ..  228 
..  228 
191-211 
...  212 
....  212 
...  212 
...  221 
...  221 
...  221 
...228 
..  229 
...  35 
...  38 
...  10 
...  38 
...  50 
..46-51 
...  75 


Turtle  P (Middle)... 

Trout 

Tirrell  P 

Tupper  (Big) 

“ (Little) 

Three  Pound  P 

Triangle  P. ..... 

Upper  Pish  Creek  P. 

Utowana 

Uz  P 

White 

Whortleberry  P 

Woodhull 

Wood’s  (Sylvan) 

Witchhopple 

West  p (Middle L).. 

Wolf  P (3)  ...  

Winnebago  P 

Windfall  P 

White  Pine  P 

Wells  P 

Wilmart 

Whey  P. 

Woodbury  P 

iWhi  e Lily  P 

West  (Little)  Pine  P, 

Willis  P 

Whitney.  ...» 

Weller  P [2] 

'West  P 


PAGE. 

109 

197 

....191-211 

219 

231 

....226-227 

226 

126 

190 

221 

.....  11 

171 

11-12 

34 

36 

46 

.77,  176-191 

71 

. . . . 106-128 

129 

129 

10 

129 

129 

143 

106 

106 

187 

122 

229 


MOUNTAINS. 


HEIGHT. 

Mt.  Tahawus  (Marcy) 5,403 169 

Mt.  McIntyre 5,202 167 

Mt.  Haystack 5,007.  ..  142 

Mt.  Skylight 4,998  ...  142 

Whiteface  Mt 4,955. ...  130 

Mt.  Clinton ...» 4,938 

Dix’s  Peak 4,916 — 163 

Basin  Mt 4,906....  142 

Gray’s  Peak 4,903 

Little  Haystack  Mt 4,855  

Mt.  Colden  (McMartin) . . . 4,753 ...  168 

Gothic  Mt 4,744 ....  142 

Mt.  Redfleld 4,688 

Nipple  Top  Mt.  (Dial) 4,684 163 

Santanoni  Mt 4,644..  . 167 

Saddle  Back  Mt 4,536  . . 142 

Giant  of  the  Valley 4,530  . . 154 

Mt.  Seward 4,385....  216 

Macomb  Mt 4,371....  150 

Ragged  Mt 4,163  ... 

Mt,  Colvin 4,142 

Blue  Ridge  (Approx.) 4,000  ...  171 

Mt.  Lion  “ ...4,000 99 

Mt,  Pharaoh  “ ....  4,000. ...  171 

Mt.  Wright 4,000 

Mt,  Seymour 3,929 

Snowy  Mt 3,904....  191 

Bald  Pace  Mt 3,904 

Devil’s  Ear  Mt 3,904 

W allface  Mt 3,893....  167 

Blue  Mt.  (Emmons) 3,825 191 


HEIGHT. 


Hurricane  Peak 3,763 154 

North  River  Mt 3,759 

Mt.  Hoffman 3,728 

Bartlett  Mt 3,715....  142 

Camel’s  Hump  Mt 3,548....  142 

Boreas  Mt.  (Approx.). . . . . .3,726 163 

Ampersand  (Moose)  Mt 3,433. . . 121 

Crain’s  Mt 3,289 

Andrew  Mt 3,216 

Hopkin’s  Peak 3.137 142 

Speculator  Mt 3,041 

Mt.  Henderson  (Approx.)  .3,000.  ...  167 

Mt.  Goodenow  “ ..3,000 175 

Mt.  Morris  (Approx.) 3,000..  ..  221 

Mt.  Joseph  “ ....3, 000....  176 

Poke  O’ Moonshine,  “ . 3,000..  151 

Owl’s  Head  Mt 2,825 211 

Long  Tom  Mt.  (Silver  L.) . .2,604  . . . 225 

Indian  Face  Mt.  (Approx.)  2,536  — 135 

Mt.  Maxham  2,511 

Big  Pitch  Off  Mt.  (Appx.).. 2,500..  ..  158 

CatMt.  (Approx.) 2,336 

Bald*Mt 2,302 

Pratt’s  Mt.  (Smith’s) 2,273 ... . 39 

Long  Pond  Mt 2,269....  158 

Rift  Hill 2,141 

Holmes’  Hill 2,122 

Bald  Peak  2,102....  135 

Raven  Hill 1,982 154 

jCobble  Hill 1,936....  154 


VI 


INDEX. 


ROUTES  FROM  GATEWAYS. 


PAGE. 

From  Alder  Creek  Station 11 

Amsterdam 194 

Boonville 12 

Carthage 47 

Caldwell 172 

Chateaugay 82 

Crown  Point 161 

DeKalb  Junction 50 

Fonda 195 

Governeur 49 

Herkimer ...  198 

Little  Falls 197 

Lowville 25 

Lyon's  Falls 24 

Martinsburg  Station 25 


PAGE. 

...  58 


Routes,  General  View,  Modes  of  Access,  Expenses,  &c. 


From  Massena  Springs 

Malone 69 

Moira 61 

Ogdensburg 57 

Port  Kent 144 

Port  Leyden 23 

Potsdam 52 

Plattsburg 86 

Prospect 10 

Remsen *11 

Rouse’s  Point 85 

Saratoga  Springs 177 

Ticonderoga 169 

Trenton  Falls 7 

Westport 153 

266 


ROUTES  (Interior). 


Chain  Lakes  -175_1^ 

Brandreth’s  L from  Smith’s  L 45 

Blue  Mt.  L from  Pleasant  L 19o 

Indian  Pass - 

Long  Lake  from  Newcomb  176 

“ “ “ Raquette  L ..  . 205 

Mt.  Marcy 142,  ^0-162 

Mud  Lake 

North  Branch 20,  35-38 

Paul  Smith’s  from  Meacham  74 

SpringC.  C ...  67 
“ “ to  U.  Saranac  L 108 


Paul  Smith’s  from  Martin’s 116-119 

Raquette  L from  Smith’s  L 45-47 

“ “ Martin’s 119 

“ “ Blue  Mt.  L.  . . 188 

South  Branch  (Moose  R)  18 

St.  Regis  River 110 

Shallow  Lake  from  Raquette  L — 203 

Tupper  L’s  from  Smith’s  L 41 

“ “ Cranberry  L 52 

“ “ U.  Saranac  L ... . 123 

“ “ Forked  L 207 

“ “ Long  L 212-214 


RIVERS. 


Adirondack,  Ausable 16631qq 

Black,  Beaver..  ■ 

Boquet,  Boreas,  Bog 141,  442~223 

Chateaugay,  Chub 82-166 

Cedar,  Cold,  Deer 186,  216-72 

Grass,  Goodenow. • • vt'-lm 

Hudson,  Indian,  Jessup lbb-195 


Moose,  Marion 14-192 

Newcomb,  Nameless  C 176-203 

Oswegatchie,  Opalescent 51-165 

Raquette,  Rock,  St.  Regis,  -j  ’ j jq 

Salmon,  Saranac 76-86 

Schroon,  Sacondaga 162-195 


WILDERNESS  RESORTS. 


Arnold’s,  Old  Forge,  Austin  sl5, 16-192 
Bend,  Branch  P.,  Bartlett’s.  <8,  75-119 
Beecraft’s,  Brewster’s,  Bonney  s 9-132 
Corey’s,  Cary’s,  Chatu  y L. . .205,  123-83 
Cranberry  L.Chazy  L, Clear  P.  51,98-163 
Cronk’s,  Dukett’s,  Dam  .,222,123-76 
Elk  (Mud)  L.,  Elizabethtown. . . 163-153 

Hunter’s  Home,  Hathorn  s 75-189 

Harrisville , 4J 

Keene,  Kellogg’s  (L.  L.) 1*5-210 

Lakes  Pleasant,  Piseco 194-197 


Martin’s,  Moody’s, 115-219 

Meacham  L,  No.  4 71-26 

Nash’s,  Newcomb 132-175 

Ragged  L,  Root’s 77-162 

Spring  Cove  Cottage 62 

Smith’s,  Scott’s,  Schroon  L,  103, 159-170 

Tahawus  (Cheney’s) 164 

U.  Adirondack  (Moore’s) 165 

VanArnam’s,  Wardner’s 99-126 

Wilmington,  Wakeley’s 130-185 


GENERAL  DIVISIONS. 


I. 

Into  the  John  Brown  Tract,  Oswegatchie  and  Grass 
Rtvep  Regions, 

II. 

Into  the  Chateaugay  and  St.  Regis  Woods. 

III. 

Into  the  Saranac  Region. 

IV. 

Into  the  Adirondack,  Hudson  River,  Raquette  and 
Long  Lake  Regions. 


V. 

Into  the  Garoga,  Pleasant  and  Piseco  Lakes  Re- 
gions. 


VI. 

The  Raquette  Waters. 

VII. 

Appendix — Comprising  Outfit,  List  of  Guides,  &c 


ABB  REVIATION  S 


USED  IN  THE 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


N — North. 

S — South. 

E — E,ast. 

W— West, 
r— right. 

1 — left,  long,  or  length, 
m—  mile,  or  miles, 
r — rod  or  rods, 
ft — feet, 

R— River. 

Mt — Mountain. 

Pt— Point. 

L — Lake. 

P — Pond. 

(4  x 2) — Dimensions  of  a Lake  or  Pond.  The  example 
indicates  a length  of  4 m and  a width  of  2 m. 


INTRODUCTION. 


The  Great  Wilderness  of  north-eastern  New  York,  the 
limits  of  whose  several  sections  are  indicated  below,  is 
generally  known  as  “The  North  Woods,”  or  as  “The 
Adirondacks  ; ” — -according  to  the  view  mken  of  its  sur- 
face. The  former  title  indicates  merely  a wild,  densely 
wooded  region  ; — the  latter,  a region  occupied  by  all  the 
varied  scenery  pertaining  to  a most  remarkable  Lake  and 
Mountain  system  ! The  one  may  have  been  the  fit  bap- 
tismal offering  of  a Botanist  ; — the  other  of  a Geologist. 
We  can  easily  understand  how  strangers,  or  the  more  sor- 
did trappers  and  hunters,  may  think  and  talk  of  “ The  North 
Woods  but  the  more  intimately  the  cultivated  and  intel- 
ligent tourist  becomes  acquainted  with  its  wonderful 
diversity  of  permanent  characteristics,  the  more  instinc- 
tively he'thinks  and  talks  of  “ The  Adirondacks!  ” And 
if  our  State  authorities  will  but  wisely  take  counsel  of  the 
increasing  host  of  such,  the  science  of  Geography  must 
soon  add  to  its  best  vocabulary,  this  euphonious  designa- 
tion of  one  of  the  world’s  popular  resorts: — “The  New 
York  State  Adirondack  Park!”  Foreigners  shall  then 
recognize  in  it — while  perusing  “ The  American  Toiirist's 
Guide  ” — a fitting  place  for  a few  weeks  rest  after  their 
wearisome  Atlantic  trip ; and  a happy  disciplinary  school 
for  the  thoughts  and  feelings,  before  proceeding  to  the 


6 INTRODUCTION. 

western  prairies  and  the  “Grand  National  Yo  Semite 
Park  ! ” 

“ John  Brown  s Tract”  perhaps  the  most  widely  known 
of  the  Adirondack  sections,  extends  across  Herkimer 
County,  ai}d  into  Hamilton  on  the  east,  and  Lewis  on  the 
west,  and  includes  210,000  acres. 

“The  Oswegatchie  and  Grass  Ricer  Regions ” are 
mostly  embraced  by  the  southeastern  portion  of  St.  Law- 
rence. 

“ The  Chateaugay  Woods  ” occupy  the  southwestern 
portion  of  Clinton,  and  the  central  portion  of  Franklin. 

“The* St.  Regis  Woods”  lying  immediately  below,  also 
embrace  a part  of  the  middle  portion  of  Franklin. 

“The  Saranac  Reg' on ” including  the  Tupper  Lakes 
section,  comprises  the  southern  portion  of  Franklin,  the 
southeastern  corner  of  St.  Lawrence,  and  the  northern 
borders  of  Hamilton. 

The  northern  portion  of  Warren,  and  nearly  the  whole 
of  Essex,  are  comprised  in  the  territory  of  the  “Adiron- 
dack and  Hudson  River  Regions .” 

“The  Raquette  a?id  Long  I^ake  Regions ” consist  of  the 
northern  half  of  Hamilton. 

“The  Garoga  Lake  Region  ” is  included  within  the 
northern  third  of  Fulton. 

“The  Lakes  Pleasant  a?id  Piseco  Regions  ” are  contain- 
ed by  the  southern  half  of  Hamilton. 

The  territorial  aggregate  of  these  various  sections, 
amounts  to  more  than  3,500,000  acres — a tract  of  land 
affording  an  area  about  75  miles  square. 

Into  this  wild  region  of  primitive  forests,  majestic 
mountains,  magnificent  lakes  and  beautiful  rivers,  we  invite 
the  reader’s  good  company  on  the  following  excursions. 

E.  R.  W. 


BIRDSEYE  VIEW  FROM  THE  PINNACLE. 
(Trenton  Falls.) 


■ 


1 


PART  OP  HIGrH  PALLS. 
(Trenton  Palls.) 


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THE  PRINCIPAL  AVENUES 

INTO 

The  Great  Wilderness, 

From  Northern , Eastern , Southern  and  Western 
New  York. 

DIVISION  I. 

INTO  THE  JOHN  BROWN  TRACT,  OSWEGATCHIE  AND  GRASS 
RIVER  REGIONS. 

The  routes  usually  taken  are  those  leading  from  Tren- 
ton, Prospect,  Remsen,  Alder  Creek,  Boonville,  Port 
Leyden,  Lyons  Falls,  Martinsburg,  Lowville  and  Carth- 
age, all  of  which  are  located  on  the  Utica  and  Black 
River  R.  R.;  and  from  Gouverneur,  De  Kalb  Junction 
and  Potsdam,  each  a station  on  the  Rome,  Watertown 
and  Ogdensburg  Railway.  From  any  of  these  points  a 
short  day’s  journey  conveys  the  tourist  into  an  unbroken 
wilderness. 

First. — Trenton  Falls.  To  this  romantic  spot  the 
route  is  familiar  to  many  of  our  readers.  Easy  of  access  (17 
m.  N.  of  Utica),  perfectly  adapted  to  the  requirements  of 
the  pleasure-seeker,  and  presenting  a variety  of  charms 
truly  enchanting  to  the  lover  of  Nature,  Trenton  Falls  will 
ever  remain  a popular  resort  to  those  who  would  ex- 
amine a multiplicity  of  natural  attractions,  with  but  little 


8 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


trouble  or  expense.  “ Among  the  resorts  of  romantic 
scenery  in  our  country,”  says  N.  P.  Willis,  “ the  most 
enjoy  ably  beautiful  spot  is  Trenton  Falls.  To  the  writer, 
as  to  most  others  who  have  visited  it,  the  remembrance 
of  its  loveliness  has  become  the  bright  spot  .to  which 
dream  and  revery  oftenest  return.  It  seems  to  be  curi- 
ously adapted  to  enjoy  ; being,  somehow,  not  only  the 
kind,  but  the  size  of  a place  which  the  (after  all)  measur- 
able arms  of  a mortal  heart  can  enfold  in  its  embrace. 
Niagara  is  too  much — as  a roasted  ox  is  a thing  to  go  to 
look  at,  though  one  retires  to  dine  on  something  smaller. 

Trenton  Falls  is  the  place,  above  all  others,  where  it 
is  a luxury  to  stay — which  one  oftenest  revisits — which 
one  most  commends  strangers  to  be  sure  to  see.” 

And  Wallace  Bruce,  in  his  pretty  little  volume,  “ The 
Hudson  River  By  Daylight,”  thus  felicitously  expresses 
himself  on  this  subject : — “ For  the  last  ten  year's  we 
have  heard  of  these  charming  waterfalls,  but  it  was  not 
until  the  middle  of  June,  1874,  that  good  fortune  con- 
ducted us  thither,  and  led  us  by  the  hand  from  rock  to 
rock,  from  cascade  to  waterfall,  through  all  that  realm  of 
bewitching  beauty.  The  hotel,  a short  distance  from 
this  mountain  glen,  is  a model  of  summer  resorts,  and  its 
proprietor,  Mr.  M.  Moore,  is  an  educated  gentleman* 
The  first  rural  resort  of  this  place  was  built  by  Mr.  John 
Sherman,  a graduate  of  Yale,  1793.  Hither  some  forty 
years  ago,  Mr.  Moore,  present  proprietor,  came  -like 
Hiawatha  of  old,  and  found  his  Minnehaha,  great  grand- 
daughter of  Roger  Sherman,  a line  more  illustrious  even 
than  the  tribe  of  the  Dakotahs  It  is  said  that  on  his 
return  to  Manhattan  he  was  not  unmindful  of  the  vision, 
and  always  heard  the  Falls  of  Trenton 

‘ Calling  to  him  through  the  distance, 

Calling  to  him  from  afar  off.’ 

So  much  for  his  personal  history,  which  we  only  mention 
as  evidence  that  fiction  is  but  the  shadow  of  truth.  We 
arrived  at  Trenton  a little  before  six,  and  at  once  de-' 

*And  here  memory  turns  to  the  happy  hours  we  recently  passed,  of  a wintry 
af  ernoon,  by  his  hospitable  fireside,  in  the  society  of  his  amiable  family,  and 
;i  his  own  congenial  company  in  his  elegant  library — the  admirable  selection 
..  . vyhose  treasures  evinces  tlie  highest  order  of  cultivated  taste.  — Ep. 


Descriptive  guide. 


9 


scended  the  stairs  to  the  natural  pavement,  which  for 
two  miles,  level  with  the  water’s  edge,  borders  the  left 
side  of  the  stream.  This  is  the  pleasantest  hour  of  the 
day  for  lonely  rambles  like  these,  and  the  falling  water  at 
eventide  has  all  the  melody  of  sadness.  Passing  a few 
rods  up  the  stream,  over  fossil  formation  which  recount 
fifty  million  years  of  history,  and  under  overhanging  rock, 
every  leaf  of  whose  folds  has  been  a recording  page  for 
science,  we  suddenly  come  in  full  view  of  Sherman  Fall. 
Here,  it  is  said,  a fairy  (perhaps  great  grand-daughter  of 
Undine,)  occasionally  dances  through  the  mist  ‘ modestly 
retiring  as  the  visitor  changes  his  position,  and  blushing  all 
colors  when  she  finds  him  gazing  at  her  irised  beauties.’ 
The  Fall  has  been  poetically  styled  by  Mrs.  Kemble, 

‘ The  daughter  of  heaven  and  earth, 

With  dark  eyes,  white  feet,  and  amber  hair.’ 

In  no  place,  save  the  northern  Highlands  of  Scotland, 
have  we  seen  such  amber  foam,  and  such  dark  headlong 
flow  of  river.  The  arrowy  Rhone  is  not  swifter,  the  Falls 
of  Foyers  are  not  so  beautiful.  High  Falls  are  forty  rods 
beyond,  a succession  of  lovely  cascades,  one  over  forty 
feet  in  height.  Here  we  have  the  whole  organ  choir, 
from  the  tenor  and  treble  of  the  sheet  of  water  on  the 
right,  to  the  deep  bass  of  the  heavy  fall  on  the  left. 
Above  this,  the  Mill  Dam  Fall  and  the  Alhambra  with 
its  cascade,  and  still  further  on  the  Rocky  Heart,  a good 
spot  for  lovers  to  propose  in  by  way  of  contrast.  We 
can  only  point  out  these  beauties  in  a general  way  It 
is  a place  to  be  visited.  Go  !” 

Those  not  desiring  to  penetrate  the  woods  farther  than 
Metcalf  Creek,  Jock’s,  or  the  Reservoir  Lakes,  and  yet 
who  would  find  excellent  sporting,  regard  the  route  from 
this  locality  and  from  Prospect,  three  miles  beyond — the 
two  becoming  identical  there— somewhat  desirable  ones. 

Second.  From  Prospect  Station,  by  good  wagon  road, 
to  Prospect  Village,  (pretty  cascade  here,)  i^  m.  ; thence 
to  Hinckley’S  Mills,  2 m. ; Grant,  3 m. ; Ohio,  5 m.  ; 
Wilmurt  Corners,  4 m.  ; Ed.  Wilkinson’s  Hotel,  2 m • 
Giles  Beecraft's,  (W.  Canada  Creek,)  1 1 m.  ; Wilmurt  L ’ 
(a  lovely  trout-producing  sheet,  but  private  properly ,)  2 


10 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


m ; across  the  lake,  i m.  ; path  to  Snag  L.,  (a  pretty 
little  pond,  ^ x J,  famous  for  its  bullheads,  and  also 
trout,)  i m.  ; Metcalf  Creek,  (a  cold  trout  stream,  enter- 
ing the  N.  branch  of  W.  Canada  Creek, ) i m.  Total — 
from  Prospect  Station— 33^  m From  the  “ landing  ” 
on  the  creek,  carry  2 m.  N.  to  Little  Rock  L.  ; thence 
\ m.  to  Little  Bear  L.  ; thence  2\  m.  to  Twin  Rock  L. 
Big  Rock  L.,  3 m.  S.  E.  of  the  “ landing,”  affords 
beautiful  scenery,  good  deer-floating  and  fair  trout-fish- 
ing, but  is  very  difficult  of  access,  it  being  necessary 
to  wade  up  the  Metcalf  a mile  and  to  follow  thence  the 
bed  of  Big  Rock  outlet  to  the  lake.  From  Beecraft’s  to 
Pine  L.  it  is  4 m.  E.  ; thence  to  “ G ” Lake*  1 m.  E. 
Morehouse  L.  is  4^  m.  S.  E.  of  Beecraft’s  ; and  High 
Falls,  on  W.  Canada  Creek,  8 m.  N.  At  Beecraft’s — P. 
O.  Morehouseville,  3 m.  distant — tidy  accommodations 
are  furnished  and  Mr.  B.  officiates  as  guide.  Charges, 
very  moderate. 

From  Ed.  Wilkinson’s  Hotel  to  Watkins’  (Wilkinson’s 
old  place,)  it  is  5 m. — the  road  branching  1.  from  the  Bee- 
craft  route,  3 m.  beyond  the  hotel ; thence  to  Jock’s 
Lake,  o>\  m.  Total,  from  Prospect  Station,  32  m. 
Travelers  will  prefer  to  walk  over  the  latter  portion  of 
the  route. 

Jock’s  or  Transparent  Lake  (6  x 1),  is  a handsome  sheet 
of  water,  surrounded  by  wild  and  picturesque  scenery, 
and  is  one  of  the  chief  sources  of  W.  Canada  Creek, 
upon  which  are  Trenton  Falls.  It  received  its  name 
from  its  discoverer,  “ Uncle  Jock  Wright,”  one  of  the 
noted  trappers  and  master  hunters  of  early  days.  For 
years  it  has  been  a favorite  resort  for  trout  fishing. 
Three  miles  to  the  S.  W.  is  South  L.  Reservoir,  and  2 m. 
W.  of  that  is  North  L.  Reservoir,  the  first  accessible  by 
path,  and  the  latter  thence  by  road.  These  pretty  lakes 
are  headwaters  of  Black  R.,  and  are  termed  “ Reservoir,” 
on  account  of  their  being  employed  as  “ feeders  ” to  the 
Black  River  Canal.  Their  length  is  about  2 m.  South 
L.  is  especially  famous  for  fish,  and  what  is  remarkable 
for  a North  Woods  lake,  furnishes  not  only  trout,  but 
suckers,  and  in  great  abundance. 


AN  INHABITANT  OF  JOHN  BROWN’S  TRACT. 
(Killed  by  Mr,  Graves,  of  Boonville,  N.  Y.) 


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DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  I I 

The  Woodhull  Lakes,  also  sources  of  Black  River,  are 
visited  from  this  vicinity  by  following  good  paths  extend- 
ing to  them.  Distance  6 to  9 m. 

A route  also  leads  from  Prospect  via  Ohio  to  the  Piseco 
and  Pleasant  Lakes  region,  as  follows  : — Ohio  to  More- 
houseville,  13  m;  foot  of  Piseco  Lake,  10  m ; thence  to 
Lake  Pleasant,  14  m.  Total  distance  from  Prospect,  47  m. 

The  Myron  House  and  Jones  House,  are  the  hotels 
of  this  village,  where  good  accommodations  may  -always 
be  obtained. 

t 

Third — From  Remsen  to  Bellingertown,  10  m ; thence 
to  Dawson’s  old  place,  7 m ; North  Lake  R,  5 m ; South 
Lake  R,  2 m ; thence  to  Joe’s  Lake,  3 m.  Road  fair. 
Parties  ride  to  the  head  of  South  Lake,  and  then  take  boats 
to  the  foot,  from  whence  the  pathway  leads  to  Joe’s  Lake. 
The  same  localities  may  be  visited  from  Remsen  by  way  of 
Prospect  (2  in),  or  via  Dick  Paul’s  place,  (16  m).  Travelers* 
at  the  outset,  are  provided  with  comfortable  quarters,  or 
with  a full  variety  of  supplies  at  Dawson’s  Hotel,  Remsen. 
Being  an  experienced  woodman,  he  is  thoroughly  posted 
as  to  all  their  wants. 

Fourth — From  Alder  Creek  Station  to  Alder  Creek 
Corners  (Geo.  L.  Thurston’s  Hotel),  f m ; thence  to  For- 
estport  (Maibach’s  Forest  Hotel),  2m;  Bellingertown, 
6 m ; where  the  route  joins  the  one  starting  from  Remsen. 
Or  from  Forestport  to  White  Lake  Corners,  6 m ; Studor’s 
Hotel  (a  road  diverges  here  to  White  Lake,  1^  m N. 
Kraft’s  Hotel);  John  Landson’s  place,  3 m ; Woodhull 
Lake,  8 m.  Total  19!.  The  road  is  in  good  condition  as 
far  as  Landson’s  ; from  thence  it  is  well  adapted  to  dys- 
peptics. The  Woodhull  group  comprises  additionally. 


I 2 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Chub,  Bisby,  &c.,  Lakes.  One  and  a half  miles  beyond 
Wood  hull  is  Moose  River,  where  excellent  sporting 
may  be  found;  and  6 m farther  in  the  same  direction 
is  the  Old  Forge.  This  was  the  first  of  the  three  roads 
that  John  Brown,  the  owner  of  the  “ Tract”  opened  to 
the  settlements,  which  terminated  at  Remsen.  From  the 
Forge  to  Woodhull  Lake  it  is  now  mostly  overgrown  with 
trees  and  only  a hunters’  trail  indicates  its  course.  Par- 
ties will  always  find  men  in  readiness  at  the  different 
villages  named  on  the  line  of  the  railroad  to  convey  them 
to  all  the  lakes  thus  far  noted,  where  boats  can  invariably 
be  procured. 

Fifth — “ Boonville,”  says  a correspondent  of  the  Utica 
Herald , whom  we  frequently  have  occasion  to  quote,  “has 
long  been  the  common  point  of  entrance  to  the  ‘ Hunter’s 
Paradise.’  The  people  of  that  village  unite  in  making 
welcome  and  aiding  pleasure  parties.  There  men  can  be 
found  who  have  passed  the  greater  part  of  their  lives  in 
the  woods,  who  know  exactly  what  the  tourist  needs  and 
what  he  should  leave  behind.  There  guides,  horses  and 
conveyances  are  to  be  obtained  on  short  notice  or  on 
demand,  unless  the  demand  prove  too  great.  There  is 
located  the  Hurlburt  House,  which  for  the  last  thirty  or 
forty  years,  has  been  the  rallying  point  of  pilgrims  to  the 
Wilderness,  where  they  have  planned  their  trips,  and 
where  they  have  returned  to  celebrate  their  success  with 
rod  and  rifle.  The  flavor  of  trout  and  venison  is  as 
natural  to  the  place  as  fragrance  to  a rose.  Many  of  our 
readers,  whose  steps  are  feeble  and  whose  heads  are  gray, 
will  recall  with  a smile  and  a sigh  the  days  when  ‘ Dick  ’ 
Hurlburt,  most  genial  of  landlords,  dealt  hospitality  with 
a generous  hand,  and  when  they  told  the  story  of  their 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  1 3 

exploits  by  his  blazing  fire.  Richard  Hurlburt  will  never 
again  give  words  of  cheer  or  advice  to  hunter  or  fisher  ; 
but  the  Hurlburt  House  still  remains,  and  under  the  able 
management  of  its  courteous  proprietor — George  A. 
May — is  as  popular  as  ever.”  Parties  desiring  to  have 
horses,  guides,  or  rooms  engaged,  or  any  other  arrange- 
ments made  for  them  in  advance,  should  address  George 
A.  May,  B.  P.  Graves,  or  Ed.  N.  Arnold,  Boonville,  N.  Y. 

Clothing,  Hats  and  Caps,  Water-proof  Goods  and 
other  articles,  of  outfit  may  be  obtained  of  B.  P.  Graves 
& Brother,  whose  store  is  within  a few  feet  of  the  Hurl- 
burt House.  These  merchants  are  also  extensive  dealers 
in  raw  Furs,  for  which  they  pay  the  most  generous  prices. 
They  are  enthusiastic  sportsmen,  too,  as  the  several 
“trophies  of  the  chase”  displayed  in  their  show-win- 
dows sufficiently  prove.  Among  them  is  a huge  panther 
which  was  brought  down  by  the  rifle  of  the  senior  of 
the  firm  a few  years  since,  near  Little  Moose  Lake.  ( See 
illustration .) 

The  following  are  the  distances  en  route  from  Boonville 
to  Raquette  Lake  : — * 

Boonville  to  Lawrence’s,  (Moose  River,)  12^  miles. 

Thence  to  Arnold’s,  (old  place,)  - 1 ij  “ 

“ “ Old  Forge,  Arnold’s  new  hotel,  2f 

“ “ Moose  River,  - - 2\  “ 

“ “ First  Lake,  - - - i%  “ 

“ “ Second  Lake,  1 “ 

“ “ Inlet,  - - - - 20  • rods. 

“ “ Third  Lake,  1 mile. 

“ “ Inlet,  - i “ 

“ “ Fourth  Lake,  - - 6 “ 

“ “ Inlet,  - i '* 

u “ Fifth  Lake,  J “ 

*Route  to  Woodhull  Lakes. — Boonville  to  Hawkinsville,  3 m.  ; White  Lake 
Corners,  7 m.  $ WoodbuH  Lake,  11  m.  j — Total,  21  m.  Road  good  to  White 
Lake  Corners, 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


14 

Thence — Portage, 

Sixth  Lake,  - - 
Inlet,  - - - - - 
Seventh  Lake,  - 
Inlet,  - - - - 

Portage,  - 
Eighth  Lake,  - - 
Portage,  - 
Brown  Tract  Inlet, 


Total, 

Several  miles  from  Boonville  the  road  enters  the  woods, 
and  when  the  traveler  arrives  at  Lawrence’s,  with  an 
appetite  sharpened  to  a razor-like  keenness,  by  the  jolt- 
ings he  has  received  while  passing  over  the  several  patches 
of  corduroy  occurring  on  the  way,  he  is  ready  to  dispose 
of  the  excellent  dinner  that  awaits  his  coming  at  this  Hun- 
ter’s Inn.  It  is  truthfully  remarked  that  “ no  steam  whistle 
or  driver’s  call,  will  give  unwelcome  warning  that  the  train 
or  stage  is  about  to  start,  before  the  appetite  is  dulled.” 

The  houses  of  the  small  settlement  here,  now  called 
Moose  River  Village,  are  mostly  occupied  by  the  families 
of  the  employes  engaged  in  the  mammoth  tannery  of 
C.  J.  Lyons,  located  at  this  place. 

Moose  River  at  this  point,  is  twice  as  large  as  W.  Canada 
Creek,  and  is  very  rapid.  From  its  principal  sources,  the 
“ North  and  South  Branch  ” and  the  “ Eight  Lakes,”  it 
flows  from  Hamilton  Co.,  S.  W.  across  Herkimer,  into 
Lewis  where  it  empties  into  BlackRiver,  just  above  Lyons 
Falls. 

Those  familiar  with  this  particular  route,  will  be  pleased 
to  learn,  that  a bridge  now  spans  the  river  here,  obviating 


£ miles. 

4 “ 

1 “ 

2 “ 
ii  “ 

1 

if  “ 

ii  “ 


524  “ 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


15 


the  necessity  of  fording,  as  in  former  times.  The  road  from 
Lawrence’s  to  Arnold’s  is  not  as  smooth  as  Nicholson 
pavement,  though  greatly  improved  of  late  ; so  much  so, 
that  ladies  now  ride  the  entire  distance  on  a “ spring 
board.”  Some,  however,  still  prefer  pack-horses.  It  is 
stated  by  veracious  witnesses  that  an  increase  of  beauty 
and  appetite  is  the  invariable  result  of  such  a trip.  When 
within  2\  miles  of  Arnold’s,  by  turning  to, the  right  from  the 
road  and  proceeding  20  or  30  rods,  the  Hell  Gate  Lakes, 
two  secluded  little  ponds,  30  or  40  rods  apart,  may  be  vis- 
ited. One  mile  N.  W.  of  them  lies  another  small  lake. 
“ Arnold’s,”  says  our  spicy  correspondent,  “is  dear  to  the 
hearts  of  the  members  of  the  old  Walton  Club,  and  of  the 
hundreds  of  others,  who  have  enjoyed  the  shelter  of  the 
house.  N.  and  E.  of  it  the  country  is  as  wild,  as  on  the 
day  when  Christopher  Columbus  shipped  his  baggage  for 
America.” 

From  Arnold’s  the  tourist  may  either  follow  the  smooth 
and  pleasant  road  to  the  Forge  (2^m),  or  proceed  50  or  60 
rods  E.,  to  Moose  River,  and  gain  the  same  point  by 
boat  (4  m). 

From  the  bridge  where  the,  road  crosses  the  river,  | m 
beyond  Arnold’s,  a good  portage  extends  1 m S.  E.  to 
Nick’s  Lake,  one  of  the  prettiest  sheets  in  these  woods. 
It  is  only  about  1 \ m long,  but  its  shores  are  so  serrated 
with  bays  and  promontories,  that  it  is  some  6 m around  it. 
Trout  are  plentiful  in  its  waters,  which  empty  into  Moose 
River.  Its  east  inlet  flows  from  a sweet  little  pond  hardly 
three  boat-lengths  distant.  Two  and  a half  miles  S.  E.  of 
Nick’s  Lake  is  another  beautiful  little  pond,  well  supplied 
with  speckled  trout. 

A short  distance  above  the  bridge  the  N.  Branch  enters 
the  river,  1.  By  diverging  from  the  main  stream  and  fob 


1 6 


descriptive  guide. 


lowing  this  branch  for  about ^ m (ijm  from  Arnold's), 
the  “ Indian  Spring  Hole,”  a celebrated  trout  resort,  is 
reached.  Gibb’s  Lake,  lying  m farther  N.  is  accessi- 
ble from  it  by  path. 

At  the  Old  Forge,  on  a slight  elevation  that  slopes 
gradually  to  the  water — an  extended  reach  of  which  it 
pleasantly  overlooks — stands  the  new  and  commodious 
hotel  of  E.N.  Arnold,  containing  ample  accommodations  for 
ioo  guest's.  When  tourists  are  again  reminded  that  they 
are  here  afforded  io  or  12  m of  boating  in  either  direction, 
that  they  can  descend  the  Moose  River  some  9 or  10  m 
before  they  encounter  any  serious  obstacles,  in  the  matter  of 
falls  or  rapids,  or  can  pass  upwards,  from  one  beautiful  lake 
to  another,  until  the  farther  extremity  of  Fourth  Lake  is 
reached,  and  12  delightful  miles  are  passed,  with  no  inter- 
ruption to  the  even  tenor  of  their  meditations  by  a single 
unromantic  “carry,”  none  will  fail  to  pronounce  this 
location  a most  appropriate  one  for  a forest  inn.  Ladies, 
especially,  will  note  its  superior  attractions  as  a summer 
resort. 

Two  authors  of  Adirondack  books,  whose  works  on  this, 
subject  we  have  perused  with  great  pleasure,  allude  to  this 
part  of  the  Wilderness — John  Brown’s  Tract — in  terms 
of  exaggerated  severity.  One  of  them  speaks  of  it  as 
“ the  most  repulsive  portion  of  the  entire  region.”  To  say 
the  least,  the  expression  was  carelessly  chosen.  Where 
within  its  limits  can  be  found  a brighter  array  of  glittering 
links  than  the  Fulton  Chain  ? where  a much  lovelier 
sheet  than  Smith’s  Lake  ? Headley  manifested  his  true 
appreciation  of  this  section  when  he  wrote  the  follow 
ing  : — 

“ The  Eight  Lakes  *are  connected  by  streams,  and  form 
u group  of  surpassing  beauty.  They  vary,  both  in  size  and 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  *7 

shape,  each  with  a different  frame-work  of  hills,  and  the 
change  is  etfer  from  beauty  to  beauty. 

“ There  they  repose  like  a bright  chain  in  the  forest,  the 
links  connected  by  silver  bars.  You  row  slowly  through 
one  to  its  outlet,  and  then  entering  a clear  stream  over- 
hung with  bushes,  or  fringed  with  lofty  trees,  seem  to  be 
suddenly  absorbed  by  the  wilderness.  At  length,  however, 
you  emerge  as  from  a cavern,  and  lo ! an  untroubled  lake, 
with  all  its  variations  of  coasts,  timber  and  islands,  greets 
the  eye. 

“ Through  this  you  also  pass  like  one  in  a dream,  wonder- 
ing why  such  beauty  is  wasted  where  the  eye  of  man 
rarely  beholds  it.  Another  narrow  outlet  receives  you, 
and  guiding  your  frail  canoe  along  the  rapid  current, 
you  are  again  swallowed  up  by  the  wilderness,  to  be  born 
anew  in  a lovelier  scene.  Thus  on,  as  if  under  a wizard’s 
spell,  you  move  along,  alternately  lost  in  the  narrow  chan- 
nels and  struggling  to  escape  the  rocks  on  which  the  cur- 
rent would  drive  you,  then  floating  over  a broad  expanse, 
extending  as  far  as  the  eye  can  see  into  the  mountains 
beyond.  A ride  through  these  eight  lakes  is  an  episode 
in  a man’s  life  he  can  never  forget.” 

Of  the  physical  outline  of  this  “Tract,”  Prof  Lardner 
Vanuxem,  thus  remarks  in  his  volume  of  the  Geology  of 
New  York  : — “ The  most  interesting  feature  of  the  Wilder- 
ness region  is  its  chain  of  lakes,  placed  so  nearly  upon  a 
level,  that  but  little  labor  from  man  is  required  to  connect 
those  of  several  counties  together.  The  lakes  of  Herkimer 
and  Hamilton  are  arranged  upon  a line  which  is  parallel 
with  the  St.  Lawrence  R.  and  Ontario  Lake,  and  with  the 
Ohio,  etc.;  appearing  not  to  be  accident  merely,  but  the 
result  of  a law  whose  operations  were  in  their  direction, 
and  on  several  parallels.  These  lakes,  if  a communication 


i8 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


were  opened  from  E.  to  W.,  would  be  much  resorted  to. 
The  beauty  of  their  waters,  their  elevation,  and  the  wild 
scenery  which  surrounds  them,  would  not  fail  to  attract 
visitors.” 

We  need  not  here  enumerate  the  msany  other  crystal  lakes 
and  rivulets  that  adorn  this  section,  all  situated  in  the 
midst' of  the  finest  scenery,  as  they  are  noticed  in  their 
proper  places. 

Here  at  the  “ Forge,”  where  Herreshoff,  nearly  60  years 
ago,  erected  his  mills,  is  one  of  the  best  water-powers  in 
the  world.  The  old  dam,  some  40  ft.  long,  is  still  stand- 
ing, and  when  first  constructed,  raised  the  water  in  the 
Fourth  Lake  2 ft.  (It  has  since  been  raised  four  ft> 
additionally.)  No  other  vestige  (except  a rusty  trip-ham- 
mer) remains  to  remind  the  observer  of  the  former  busi- 
ness activity  of  the  location.  Entering  our  boats  and  pass- 
ing up  the  stream,  pausing  at  Indian  Pt.,  (1)  to  examine 
the  spot  where  Uncle  Nat  shot  his  aboriginal  foe,  we 
enter  First  Lake.  Plere  we  will  briefly  turn  from  our 
route  to  make  an  excursion  to  the  sequestered  and  rarely 
visited  region  of  “South  Branch,”  of  Moose  R.  Turning 
sharply  to  the  right,  when  near  the  middle  of  the  lake,  we 
pass  Dog  Island,  and  land  at  a little  opening  about  40  r 
this  side  of  the  marsh,  and  from  thence  “ Carry”  S.  over  a 
good  path  f m to  Little  Moose  Lake.  This  beauliful  sheet 
probably  covers  a surface  of  450  acres  and  contains  no 
islands.  A long  green  promontory  nearly  divides  it  in 
twain,  and  from  its  elevated  summit  we  obtain  an  entranc- 
ing view  of  the  whole  lake,  which  is  one  of  the  purest  and 
deepest  on  the  “ Tract.”  “ It  has  a beach  of  incomparable 
whiteness,  and  the  bottom  of  the  lake,  which  looks  like  a 
vast  bed  of  fine  white  salt,  can  be  seen,  as  we  sit  in  our 
boats,  glittering  beneath,  at  an  immense  depth.” — Headley. 


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ARNOLD’S. 


“ BABES  IN  TH1C  WOOD.” 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUlDfi.  t 9 

I 

It  is  famed  for  the  abundance  and  superior  quality  of 
its  trout,  and  it  received  its  name,  as  did  Big  Moose  Lake, 
from  the  fact  that  it  was  once  a favorite'  haunt  of  the  now 
rare  moose.  The  inlet,  which  enters  its  eastern  extremity, 
flows  from  East  Pond,  containing  40  or  50  acres,  which 
is  reached  by  a carry  of  £ m N.  E.  Its  outlet  unites  with 
the  South  Branch.  Traversing  about  two-thirds  of  its 
length,  we  land  on  its  S.  shore,  opposite  the  rocky 
point,  and  carry  i m S.  to  Panther  Lake,  which  supplies 
one  of  its  inlets.  Passing  over  this  sheet  (jfc  m)  we  make 
a portage  of  2 m S.  to  the  South  Branch.  This  carry  is 
a difficult  one,  but  our  efforts  will  be  rewarded  by  some  of 
the  very  best  speckled  trout  fishing  to  be  found  in  the 
North  Woods.  The  noted  “ Combs  Spring  Hole,"  at  the 
foot  of  the  still  water,  3 m below  the  river  end  of  the  Panther 
Lake  carry,  and  “ Canachagala  Spring  Hole,"  6 m above  thex 
same  point,  are  of  remarkable  interest  to  fishermen.  Deer 
are  also  found  here  in  considerable  numbers.  On  this 
stream,  and  nearly  opposite  Moose  Lake,  is  a small  clear- 
ing of  several  acres,  called  “ Canachagala,”  and  supposed  to 
have  been  made  by  Indians.  Canachagala  and  the  Wood- 
hull  lakes,  are  visited  from  this  locality  by  taking  a path 
leaving  the  river,  S.,  which  follows  the  course  of  the  old 
Remsen  road.  Distance  to  Woodhull  L.,  i£  m ; to  Old 
Forge,  in  opposite  direction,  6 m. 

The  trail  to  the  summit  of  Bald  Mountain,  an  elevation 
rising  from  the  N shores  of  Second  and  Third  Lakes, 
and  presenting  a majestic  front  of  naked  rock,  nearly  a 
mile  in  extent,  starts  from  Grant’s  Clearing,  at  the  head  of 
Third  Lake.  Distance  to  extreme  height  about  1 m. 

At  Fourth  Lake,  the  queen  of  the  group,  we  will  again 
deviate  from  our  cpurse  to  examine  another  resort,  very 
interesting  to  the  sportsman,  namely : the  North  Branch 


DESCRIPTIVE  GtflDE. 


(of  the  Moose  R.)  Chain. , These  waters  lie  parallel  to  the 
eight  lakes,  and  their  particular  names  are  : First,  Second, 
Big  Moose,  Moss  or  Morse,  Cascade,  &c.,  Lakes. 

We  take  out  our  boats  about  i m above  the  foot  of 
Fourth  Lake,  1,  or  \ m above  the  Jack  Sheppard  and  Sny- 
der Camps,  situated  some  20  to  40  r beyond  the  first  point 
that  we  pass  after  entering  the  lake.  The  abundance  of 
cold  springs  in  this  vicinity  render  it  a favorite  camping 
ground.  We  carry  N.  § m,  then  cross  Big  Pond,  i m ; 
thence  carry  1 m ; thence  pass  over  a portion  of  First 
Lake  (£  x £),  and  up  the  inlet,  r,  N.  E.  (Moose  R.)  2\  m ; 
thence  carry,  1,  ^ m ; thence  take  stream  again  £ m ; 
thence  carry,  r,  \ m ; thence  through  Second  Lake  ij  m ; 
stream,  N.,  1 m ; thence  carry,  r,  1 J m to  Big  Moose 
Lake.  This  most  beautiful  and  secluded  sheet  (4^x1) 
, furnishes,  it  is  said,  the  best  June  fishing  in  the  Wilder- 
ness, and  there  is  no  scarcity  of  venison  here.  The  Con- 
stable families,  of  Constableville,  N.  Y.,  and  New  York 
City,  so  long  identified  with  the  woods — most  enthusiastic 
admirers  of  forest  life — have  constructed  a model  cabin 
on  the  shores  of  this  lake.  Big  Moose  is  also  accessible 
from  the  Beaver  R.  region.  (See  route  from  No  4). 

The  route  to  Morse  Lake  leads  E.  from  the  head  of 
Second  Lake  (*N.  Branch),  and  thence  N.  E.  to  Cascade 
Lake.  These  waters  are  more  easily  reached  from  Fourth 
Lake,  as  follows  : — Carry  N.  from  the  shore  opposite 
Elba  Island,  | m,  to  a lovely  little  pond  ; thence  carry  r2- 
m to  another  pond  (J  m 1)  ; thence  carry  to  Morse  Lake, 
i m ; and  from  thence  to  Cascade  Lake,  or  follow  the 
trail  (not  cut  out)  from  Eagle  Point,  Fourth  Lake,  3 m 
to  the  latter.  This  lake  is  seldom  visited  except  by  the 
hardy  hunter.  Leaving  Fourth  Lake,  boats  are  generally 
paddled  up  \ the  length  of  the  inlet,  and  then  pushed  the 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


2t 

balance  of  the  distance,  by  the  guides,  travelers  usually 
preferring  to  walk  over  the  pleasant  portage.  About  mid- 
way of  the  carry,  is  a comfortable  log  house,  built  by  some 
trapper,  for  winter’s  use. 

Lime  Kiln  Lake  is  reached  by  following  a trail  leading 
from  the  head  of  the  Fifth  Lake — from  a point  io  rods  up 
the  inlet,  R.  Distance  3 m S.  The  path  is  hardly  per- 
ceptible and  the  marked  or  “ blazed  ” trees  must  be  closely 
observed.  This  lake  is  about  1^  m 1,  contains  several 
pretty  islands,  and  is  famed  for  its  beauty.  Its  outlet  is 
the  S.  Branch  of  Moose  R. 

Front  the  Fifth  to  the  Sixtth  Lake  there  is  a continued 
fall  the  intervening  distance  of  j m.  With  a single  lock 
between  these  two  lakes,  a water  communication  might 
easily  be  obtained  through  the  whole  extent  of  the  eight 
lakes.  (“Trappers  of  N.  Y.”)  The  portage  encountered 
here  is  a rough  one. 

The  Fifth  and  Sixth  Lakes  are  considerably  noted  as 
deer  resorts.  Their  shores  are  generally  marshy,  and  nu- 
merous pond  lilies  abound  in  their  waters. 

Passing  from  the  Sixth  up  the  narrow  and  rapid  inlet, 
we  enter  the  Seventh  Lake,  delighted  with  the  panorama 
at  this  point  unfolded  to  us.  This  lake  has  one  island 
(Whites)  of  some  50  acres,  not  far  from  its  center,  cov- 
ered with  rocks  and  pine  timber.  Near  the  island,  off  its 
S.  shore,  salmon  trout  have  sometimes  been  caught,  weigh- 
ing from  15  to  20  lbs.  in  100  feet  depth  of  water.  For 
speckled  trout,  visit  the  little  stream  that  enters  near  this 
place,  and  the  inlet  and  outlet. 

Eligible  camping  places  will  be  found  near  the  foot,  on 
W.  shore  ; at  a spot  about  \ m from  the  head,  on  the  same 
side  (Camp  Comfort),  opposite  this,  across  the  lake,  at  “ Pt. 
Pleasant”  and  near  the  inlet,  bythe  “ silver  beach,”  (Camp 
Lookout.) 


22  DESCRIPTIVE  GUiDfi. 

To  reach  Bug  and  Eagle  Lakes,  2 little  sheets  lying 
alone  in  the  forest,  W.  of  Eighth  Lake,  we  follow  the  path 
N.  that  starts  from  the  sand  beach,  about  60  rods  W.  of 
the  mouth  of  the  inlet  of  Seventh  Lake.  Two  immense, 
hollow,  dead  pine  trees,  about  6 ft.  in  diameter,  furnishing 
ample  shelter  for  a party  of  four  or  five,  stand  near  the 
lake  and  mark  the  point  of  entrance.  The  route,  for  most 
of  the  way,  (1^  m,)  is  a mere  trail,  which  is  followed  by  the 
aid  of  barked  trees.  Bug  Lake  is  an  uninteresting  body 
of  water,  and  its  shape  is  similar  to  that  of  a boot,  which 
we  think  would  furnish  a more  appropriate  name.  When 
leaving  this  lake  on  the  return  trip,  by  turning  sharply  to 
the  1,  and  proceeding  80  or  100  r,  we  will  reach  Eagle 
Lake.  This  little  sheet  is  rarely  disturbed,  and  hence  its 
waters  literally  swarm  with  speckled  trout,  and  of  the 
largest  size.  The  weight  of  nine  of  them  caught  here  at 
one  time,  reached  22  lbs.  Carries  extend  from  the  various 
lakes  of  the  Fulton  Chain,  to  other  trout-inhabiting  and 
deer-frequenting  ponds,  not  far  away,  which,  though  fre- 
quently nameless,  only  help  to  swell  the  number  of  the 
thousand  forest-embosomed  lakes  and  lakelets  that  grace 
this  wonderful  region.  The  faithful,  hardy  guides  will 
conduct  sportsmen  to  all  these  favorite  resorts.  And  here 
let  us  record  our  respectful  protest  against  the  practice  of 
penetrating  these  wilds  unaccompanied  by  a guide.  Such 
a proceeding  is  fraught  with  perplexity,  hardships  and 
absolute  discomforts ; and  what  is  more, — and  this  is  in 
opposition  to  general  belief,— -it  is  attended  by  but  little  ] 
economy.  We  have  several  times  been  so  unwise  as  to 
adopt  such  a policy,  and  invariably  to  our  great  regret! 

Many  are  the  vexatious  hours  we  have  wasted — though 
fully  equipped  with  map,  guide-book  and  compass— in  seek- 
ing for  inlets  and  portages,  which  the  experienced  guide 
would  readily  find. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


23 


Many  are  the  times  our  physical,  and  even  mental,  nature, 
unaccustomed  to  such  a process,  have  been  taxed  to  the 
utmost,  by  bearing  boats  or  baggage  over  the  tedious  car- 
ries, a task  which  the  guide,  “ to  the  manner  born/'  would 
have  accomplished  with  comparative  ease. 

No ; these  useful  men,  generally  noblemen  at  heart  if 
not  in  pretensions,  are  really  indispensable  to  those  who 
visit  this  “ forest  waste.”  We  present  the  different  routes, 
not  that  the  services  of  guides  may  be  dispensed  with,  but 
that  our  readers  may  be  enabled  to  make  a selection  from 
the  various  avenues  that  enter  the  Great  Wilderness. 
“ Whichever  path  they  may  select,  they 

% 

Cannot  err 

In  this  delicious  region.” 

Continuing  our  journey  up  the  crooked  and  sometimes 
shallow  inlet  we  land  J.  and  pass  over  the  fair  portage 
to  Eighth  Lake,  near  the  outlet  of  which  a camp  is 
located. 

Traversing  the  rough  portage  from  the  head  of  this  lake, 
we  arrive  at  the  Brown  Tract  Inlet,  flowing  from  two 
pretty  little  ponds,  lying  about  1 m S.  W.  above  the  land- 
ing— only  some  20  r apart — and  which  may  be  visited  by 
boat  when  the  water  is  high.  Down  this  sinuous  stream — 
perchance  dragging  the  craft  some  distance  at  the  com- 
mencement— we  wind  through  a cheerless  swamp,  and 
anon  the  lovely  Raquette  lies  before  us.  Distance  from 
Arnold’s  about  26  m. 

Sixth  — Port  Leyden  is  pleasantly  situated  in  the 
valley  of  the  Black  River,  and  is  surrounded  by  very 
handsome  scenery.  Parties  wishing  to  spend  a few  weeks 
in  the  country  will  find  this  a desirable  location  for  a tern- 


24 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


porary  residence.  Tourists  en  route  for  the  Wilderness 
are  furnished  with  guides  and  conveyances  by  the  pro- 
prietor of  the  Union  Hotel,  also  of  the  Douglass  House, 
which  has  recently  been  repaired  and  enlarged  with  a 
view  to  the  accommodation  of  summer  guests. 

There  are  two  routes  from  this  point  to  Arnold’s  ; one 
forming  a junction  with  the  Boonville  route,  about  midway 
between  the  latter  village  and  Lawrence’s,  making  the 
distance  to  Arnold’s  22  m ; and  the  other  leading  to 
Lyonsdale,  4m;  (Caleb  Lyons’  gothic  villa  is  located  here, 
in  the  midst  of  picturesque  scenery  and  adorned  with 
elegant  collections  of  art ;)  thence  to  Deacon  Abby’s 
place,  3 m ; thence  to  Arnold’s,  merging  into  the  Boon- 
ville road  about  6 m beyond  Lawrence’s,  16  m.  Total  23  m. 

The  first  of  these  roads,  as  far  as  Lawrence’s,  is  kept  in 
good  condition.  The  other  is  sandy,  hilly,  unpleasant  and 
almost  impassible.  Hence  people  seldom  travel  that  route 
more  than  once. 

Seventh — Lyons’  Falls,  situated  near  the  junction  of 
the  Moose  with  the  Black  River,  affords  some  very  pictur- 
esque surroundings.  The  cascade  from  which  the  village 
is  named,  plunges  over  a ledge  of  gneiss  rock — in  the 
Black  River — 63  f.  in  height,  at  an  angle  of  60  degrees. 

The  precipitous  banks,  at  and  below  the  falls,  are  so 
colored  by  the  iron  gradually  washed  from  this  ledge,  that 
they  seem  to  have  been  painted  by  art,  and  hence  they 
are  called  the  “ Pictured  Rocks.”  There  is  a factory 
between  this  place  and  Port  Leyden,  where  spruce  wood 
is  put  to  a new  use — being  converted  into  paper  by  a pro- 
cess recently  discovered. 

The  Walton  House  is  the  principal  hotel. 

The  route  to  Arnold's  (22  m)  unites  with  the  one  lead* 
ing  from  Port  Leyden,  at  Lyonsdale,  3 m distant. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  2$ 

Brantingham  Lake,  a pleasant  summer  resort,  lies  6 m 
NY  E.  of  Lyons’  Falls. 

Brantingham  Lake  Hotel  is  a welcome  resting  place. 

• 

Eighth — From  Martinsburgh  Station  to  Watson, 
called  Beach’s  Bridge,  over  a good  road,  3 m ; thence  to 
Crystal  Lake,  i(A  m ; Number  Four,  4^  m.  Total,  18  m. 
For  9 m after  leaving  Watson,  the  road  is  very  sandy  ; 
the  balance  of  the  route  lies  through  the  woods,  and 
though  sometimes  rough  and  muddy,  is  preferable  to  the 
first  portion. 

Uncle  A.  G.  Atkins,  a noble  old  farmer,  also  L.  B.  Lewis, 
proprietor  of  the  comfortable  hotel  at  the  Bridge,  will  meet 
parties,  either  at  Martinsburg  Station,  or  Lowville,  and 
carry  them  to  No  4,  or  Stillwater,  at  reasonable  rates. 

P.  O.  address,  Watson,  Lewis  Co.,  N.  Y. 

Ninth — “ Lowville,”  we  again  quote  our  correspond- 
ence, “ 59  m N.  of  Utica,  is  one  of  the  prettiest,  tidiest 
and  wealthiest  villages  in  Northern  New  York.  The 
center  of  a large  and  rich  farming  country,  it  is  by  force  of 
circumstances,  an  important  furnishing  depot ; and  being 
the  home  of  refined  and  educated  people,  it  is  possessed 
of  good  schools,  fine  churches,  and  the  best  of  social 
advantages.  The  Lanpher,  and  the  Howell  House,  are  the 
leading  hotels.  We  do  not  know  of  another  village  in  the 
State,  of  the  size  of  Lowville,  that  furnishes  two  such  hotels. 
After  a thorough  examination  of  the  larder  and  accom- 
modations of  both,  we  are  unable  to  express  any  preference. 
The  rivalry  between  the  two  is  warm,  and  hence,  as  a 
natural  result,  the  guests  at  either,  are  cared  for  in  a 
manner  as  pleasant  as  it  is  unusual.  Thus  the  hotel 
accommodations,  and  the  natural  advantages  of  the  place, 


2 6 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


render  Lowville  one  of  the  best  patronized  locations  on 
the  route.  The  roads  in  this  vicinity  are  good,  and  the 
scenery  abounds  in  the  varied  charms  of  high  cultivation 
and  of  the  wildest  beauty  of  bluff  and  chasm.  In  this  con- 
nection it  may  be  stated,  that  those  who  visit  this  part  of 
Lewis  Co.,  expecting  to  find  poverty  of  soil,  or  lack  of 
agricultural  enterprise,  will  be  most  happily  disappointed. 
Three  m N.  of  the  village  are  Sulphur  Springs,  famed  in 
that  locality  for  their  health-giving  properties,  since  the 
days  when  the  Indians  tomahawked  and  otherwise  diverted 
each  other  in  primitive  innocence  and  forests.” 

Two  routes  extend  from  Lowville  to  No.  4 ; one  uniting 
with  the  Martinsburg  route,  at  Watson,  3 m distant ; and 
the  other  leading  via  Smith’s  Landing,  2 m distant ; and 
from  thence  to  Dayansville,  3 m,;  Crystal  Lake,  11^  m ; 
No.  4,  4^  m;  merging  into  the  Martinsburg  route  /‘m 
from  Watson.  Total,  21  m.  The  latter,  though  the 
longer  of  the  two,  is  a smoother  and  less  sandy  road. 

Number  Four  was  thus  named  from  the  original  tract  or 
township. 

The  first  house  we  reach  after  entering  the  clearing  is 
the  house  of  one  of  the  “ Patriarchs  of  the  Wilderness,” 
the  famous  hunter,  Chauncey  Smith.  Here  his  family 
entertain  such  parties  as  happen  to  require  their  atten- 
tions, but  “Uncle  Chauncey”  passes  most  of  the  sum- 
mer, and  even  part  of  the  winter,  at  South  Branch,  18  or 
19  m deeper  in  the  forest,  that  he  may  the  more  success- 
fully follow  his  regular  vocation  of  trapping  and  hunting. 
Although  upwards  of  76,  he  is  still  as  lithe  and  active  as 
many  people  twenty  years  his  junior.  He  takes  great 
pleasure  in  displaying  a rifle,  with  which  he  claims  to  have 
destroyed  “no  fewer  than  twelve  hundred  deer,  besides, 
scores  of  wolves,  panthers,  bears  and  other  wild  animals, 


; 


h)'  > 


' 


’ 


; 

Jiff 

’ £B 


■-,ri .»/  a 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


2 7 


with  which  these  woods  abound.  Last  fall  he  set  one  of 
his  traps  to  catch  a buck  that  was  frequenting  a certain 
locality.  He  was  successful  in  the  attempt.  Resetting 
the  trap  he  caught  a bear,  and  on  the  third  trial  he  cap- 
tured a huge  panther.  This  wholesale  slaughter  is  nothing 
unusual  in  his  experience.  The  old  gentleman,  like  all  of 
his  profession,  is  fond  of  relating  his  exploits,  but  one 
never  tires  of  hearing  tales  of  adventure  of  this  descrip- 
tion.”— Agan. 

Passing  on  about  f m farther,  we  arrive  at  the  Fenton 
House,  which,  with  its  new  and  capacious  enlargement, 
affords  entertainment  to  75  or  100  guests„and  is  a most 
suitable  resort  for  those  not  desirous  of  camping  out,  and 
yet  who  would  enjoy  all  the  advantages  in  the  way  of  the 
“ line  and  the  chase,”  that-first  class  sporting  grounds 
afford,  without  leaving  the  R.  R.  more  than  a score  of 
miles  behind.  This  explains  why  No.  4 has  become  such 
a popular  rendezvous — and  especially  for  ladies. 

Beaver  Lake,  (if  x f)  although  in  full  view  of  the  Fen- 
ton House,  is  the  frequent  resort  of  deer.  Twelve  of'*' 
fifteen  of  these  animals  were  killed  near  its  shore  during 
the  past  summer.  By  rowing  down  the  lake  to  its  outlet, 
N.  W.,  and  following  from  thence  R.  N.,  a path  if  m, 
Crooked  Lake  is  reached.  Distance  from  Fenton’s,  3f  m. 

This  is  an  unattractive  sheet,  as  far  as  beauty  of  sur- 
roundings is  concerned,  but  it  has  long  been  famed  for.  the 
quantity  and  quality  of  the  trout  it  produces. 

Size  of  the  lake,  if  m x 20  rods,  and  straight  as  an 
arrow  ; hence  its  very  appropriate  name.  The  following 
is  from  the  pen  of  Patrick  H.  Agan,  Esq.,  of  Syracuse,  N.  Y. 
a gentleman  who  has  furnished  many  interesting  papers 
relative  to  this  section  :* 


*Mr.  Agan,  once  a confirmed  invalid,  is  another  living  proof  of  the  cura- 
tive qualities  belonging  to  this  health-restoring  region. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


28 

“Number  Four, August  20,  1871. 

“ Something  over  a v^eek  ago,  as  Mr.  Fenton  and  his 
hired  man  were  spending  a night  pn  Crooked  Lake,  a pan- 
ther came  prowling  about  the  camp,  leaving  his  tracks  in 
close  proximity  to  the  slumbering  hunters.  A day  or  two 
afterwards,  Fenton  set  a trap  for  his  nocturnal  guest,  and 
going ' to  the  spot,  soon  found  the  trap  missing.  He 
had  fastened  it  to  a “ clog,”  ten  or  twelve  feet  in  length 
and  two  or  three  inches  in  diameter.  Seeing  evidence  all 
around  of  the  departure  of  some  animal  from  the  spot,  he 
followed  the  trail,  and  at  the  distance  of  about  twenty  rods 
he  struck  a large  hemlock,  under  which  lay  the  missing 
clog,  together  with  a dozen  large  branches  freshly  severed 
from  the  trunk  of  the  tree.  On  examination,  Fenton  saw 
that  these  scattered  branches  had  been  cut  from  the  tree 
by  the  teeth  of  some  animal,  and  the  clog  had  been  gnawed 
off  the  trap ! On  one  side  of  the  tree,  for  a distance  of 
sixty  feet,  all  the  limbs,  small  and  great,  had  been  trimmed 
otf  as  closely  to  the  body  as  an  axeman  could  do  it.  The 
appearance  of  things  demonstrated  conclusively  to  Mr. 
Fenton  that  the  real  visitor  had  not  been  entrapped,  but 
that  a good-sized  bear  had  got  his  foot  into  the  infernal 
machine  ; and  as  the  clog  had  failed  to  perform  its  expected 
service,  the  animal  was  now  roaming  at  large  somewhere 
in  the  untracked  wilderness,  and,  in  all  probability,  not  far 
from  the  place  of  its  capture. 

“The  discovery  of  the  capture  and  subsequent  revelations, 
happened  just  at  evening,  and  next  morning  Mr.  Fenton 
and  the  hired  man,  after  spending  a sleepless  rlight,  went 
in  search  of  Bruin.  It  was  a close  and  sultry  morning,  and 
the  two  hunters,  not  anticipating  such  an  adventure  as 
this,  had  provided  themselves  with  no  supplies  for  the  un- 
certain expedition,  Mr,  Fenton  had  his  rifle  along,  with 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


29 


plenty  of  ammunition,  and  thus  armed,  the  two  started  in 
pursuit  of  the  retreating  foe.  It  was  no  easy  matter,  as 
one  may  well  imagine,  to  follow  the  trail  of  the  animal 
through  such  a wilderness.  His  tracks  could  be  seldom 
seen,  and  would  not  suffice  as  a means  of  tracing  his  foot- 
steps. But  for  the  trap,  which  still  clung  to  the  animal 
with  a remorseless  grip,  and  which,  dragged  along  by  the 
powerful  creature,  would  occasionally  tear  the  moss  from 
the  trunks  of  decaying  trees,  it  would  have  been  impossi- 
ble to  follow  the  animal  on  his  tortuous  course.  As  it  was, 
the%undertaking  would  have  been  fruitless  to  any  one 
except  to  a person  experienced  in  woodcraft. 

“ It  was  early  in  the  morning  when  the  two  hunters  set 
out.  They  had  swallowed  their  last  morsel  of  food  the 
previous  night,  and  the  wilderness  afforded  them  no  means 
of  replenishing  their  empty  knapsacks.  Into  the  dense 
forest  they  plunged,  resolved  to  overtake  the  object  of 
their  search,  or  starve  in  the  attempt.  He  who  walks  be- 
yond two  miles  an  hour  through  the  compact  undergrowth 
of  this  great  wilderness,  accomplishes  all  any  vigorous  per- 
son is  expected  to  do.  How  must  it  have  been  with  Fen- 
ton and  his  companions  in  their  search  after  Bruin  ? They 
had  no  trail  to  guide  them,  except  here  and  there  the  foot- 
prints of  the  animnl  and  the  few  marks  made  by  the  trap. 
The  bears  route  was  very  circuitous,  and  this  added  to  the 
difficulty  of  tracing  it.  An  hour  was  sometimes  consumed 
in  finding  the  course  the  animal  had  taken  from  one  point 
to  another.  The  hunters  were  constantly  expecting  to 
overtake  the  bear  and  capture  him,  loaded  down  as  he  was 
with  the  trap  ; but  his  strength  and  endurance  proved  to 
be  far  greater  than  had  been  estimated.  The  sun  rose  to 
meridian,  and  the  patient  and  resolute  hunters  were  still 
apparently  as  far  from  the  object  of  their  search  as  in 


30 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


the  morning.  One,  two,  three,  four  o’clock  passed,  and 
still  Bruin  held  the  advance.  Night  was  coming  on,  and. 
the  hunters  were  seven  miles  from  home,  with  the  cer- 
tainty of  lying  in  the  woods  over  night  without  food  or 
shelter  if  the  search  was  longer  pursued  that  day.  Under 
these  straightened  circumstances  a comparison  of  views 
resulted  in  a determination  to  suspend  operations  until 
next  morning,  and  return  home,  which  was  done.  The 
time  thus  consumed  in  the  search  was  full  twelve  hours, 
and  the  distance  traveled  calculated  at  about  seve  miles. 

“ Meanwhile  the  people  at  Number  Four,  becoming 
alarmed  at  the  unexpectedly  long  absence  of  the  misSing 
parties,  Mr.  Green,  one  of  the  proprietors  of  the  establsh- 
ment,  was  dispatched  to  Crooked  Lake  to  ascertain,  if 
possible,  the  cause  of  their  failure  to  return  at  the  time 
expected.  On  reaching  the  lake,  the  true  situation  was 
apparent  at  a glance  ; but  he  could  do  nothing  except  to 
return  as  speedily  as  possible  and  report,  which  he  did. 
The  missing  hunters  were  too  quick  for  him,  and  made  a 
report  of  their  own,  in  person,  of  their  day’s  adventures,  be- 
fore he  reached  the  house. 

“ Next  morning  Mr.  Fenton  shouldered  his  rifle  and  again 
started,  this  time  alone,  in  pursuit.  He  had  about  7 miles  to 
travel  before  reaching  the  spot  where  the  trail  was  left  the 
evening  before.  Reaching  that  starting  point,  he  pressed 
on  with  renewed  energy  and  resolution.  The  trail  was  no 
more  distinct  than  the  day  preceding,  and  led  through  a 
low,  swampy  region,  not  often  traversed.  The  trap  still 
clung  to  the  retreating  animal,  as  was  evident  to  the  pur- 
suer, and  this  fact  alone  led  Fenton  to  believe  that  Bruin’s 
ultimate  capture  was  sure.  After  following  the  trail  three 
or  four  hours,  and  keeping  meanwhile  a sharp  lookout  for 
the  animal,  Fenton  at  last  caught  a glance  of  him  through 


DESCRIPTIVE  Gy  IDE.  31 

the  underbrush,  and  fired.  But  the  ball  did  not  take  effect. 
On  the  bear  went,  the  hunter  not  far  behind.  Rising  a 
small  knoll,  the  animal  again  exposed  his  body  to  view,  and 
another  shot  was  fired,  which  took  effect.  Still  the  animal, 
although  badly  wounded,  held  on  his  course,  making  tracks 
apparently  faster  than  ever,  and  soon  got  out  of  sight  again. 
Fenton,  reloading  his  rifle,  followed  as  fast  as  possible,  and 
in  the  course  of  half  an  hour,  or  less  perhaps,  obtained 
another  shot,  as  the  bear  was  on  the  run,  and  brought  him 
down,  the  ball  entering  the  head  and  killing  him  instantly. 
The  successful  hunter  immediately  stripped  the  hide  from 
the  animal,  and  it  now  ornaments  the  front  side  of  the 
barn  at  Number  Four.  1 his,  no  doubt,  was  among  the 
most  exciting  bear  hunts  that  have  occurred  in  this  great 
wilderness.” 

To  visit  Sand  Lake,  a charming  little  pond  ( J x lying 
1 1 m farther  N.,  and  a favorite  locality  for  deer  hunting, 
row  the  length  of  Crooked  Lake,  and  follow  the  trail  lead- 
ing from  the  head  of  that  sheet. 

Those  who  would  “ float  ” with  almost  certain  success, 
will  paddle  down  the  Beaver  River,  to  the  large  rock  just 
below  the  portage  to  Crooked  Lake,  bridge  their  boat  from 
this  rock  to  another  a few  feet  away,  shoot  the  little 
rapids  from  thence  to  the  still  water  beyond,  and  there 
obtain  their  venison. 

By  descending  the  stream  a short  distance  farther,  (2  m 
from  Beaver  Lake,)  passing  over  2 or  3 intermediate  carries 
of  a few  rods  each,  access  is  gained  to  one  of  the  wildest 
and  grandest  scenes  of  the  Tract,  namely  : Eagle  Falls. 
The  circumstance  of  a pair  of  the  “ winged  Arabs  of  the 
air,”  having  built,  for  a succession  of  years,  their  eyrie  on 
a cliff  overhanging  this  charming  cascade,  suggested  the 
name. 


32 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Francis  Lake  (i  J x f)  is  also  quite  a deer  haunt.  About 
ii  or  2 m S.  W.  of  Fenton’s,  in  Burnt  Creek,  near  the 
Watson  road,  there  is  a remarkable  trout  resort,  called 
“ Burnt  Spring  Hole.” 

To  Smith’s  Lake  the  distance  is  281}  m,  according  to 
the  following  table,  compiled  by  one  of  the  oldest  guides 


of  this  vicinity,  for  Mr.  Agan  : 

MILES. 

No.  4 to  Francis  Lake,  by  road,  - --  --  --  1 
Thence  to  Sunday  Creek,  by  road,  ------  4 

Hog’s  Back,  “ - --  ----  - 1 

Lizard  Spring,  - 2 

Stillwater,.  “ - --  --  -.3 

Rock  Shanty,  u - --  --  --  4 

South  Branch,  “ -------  3 

Little  Rapids,  “ ------  - 2 

Thence  by  River,  - --  - --  --  --  - - i\ 
Portage,  - --  --  --  --  --  j 

River,  - --  --  -- \ 

Albany  Lake,  - --  --  --  --  4 

Portage,  -----------  j 

River,  - --  --  --  --  -- 


Total,  - --  --  --  --  --  --  28^ 


The  principal  road  into  the  Wilderness  from  No.  4, — the 
old  Carthage  road, — is  kept  open  and  unobstructed  as  far 
as  Stillwater  ( 1 1 m),  beyond  which  wagons  are  no  longer 
available,  as  the  bridges  intervening  are  either  swept  away 
or  in  no  condition  to  be  crossed.  Parties  occasionally, 
when  the  water  is  high,  take  boats  at  Beaver  Lake  for 
ascending  the  river.  In  this  case,  should  they  wish  to 
tarry  and  fish  on  the  way,  comfortable  camps,  located  1 m 


Descriptive  guide:.  ^3 

£nd  also  5 of  6 m above  the  lakes,  will  afford  them  decent 
shelter  for  a night.  It  is  the  usual  practice,  however,  to 
follow  the  road, — the  able-bodied  traveling  a-foot — as  it  is 
so  rough  in  places  that  the  ride  is  far  from  being  enjoy- 
able. 

From  a point  about  6 m above  Beaver  Lake,  a blind' 
trail  extends  from  the  river  N.  2\  m to  the  3 MoshieC 
Ponds.  These  waters,  being  seldom  disturbed,  are  gener- 
ously supplied  with  trout  and  are  the  common  resort  of 
deer.  This  is  equally  applicable  to  numerous  other  lakes 
and  lakelets  lying  still  deeper  in  the  wilderness.  Hence 
the  peculiar  attractiveness  of  this  particular  section  as  a 
sporting  territory. 

Perhaps  3 m farther  up  the  stream,  a path  is  taken  also 
N.  to  another  and  larger  group  of  ponds,  styled  the 
" Eleven  Lakes,”  from  1 to  5 m distant. 

Stillwater  is  really  where  navigation  commences  with 
parties  passing  up  toward  the  headwaters  of  the  Beaver. 
At  this  important  point  is  located  Wardwell’s  place,  and 
those  not  already  provided  with  boats  and  supplies  can 
obtain  them  here,  also  comfortable  quarters  for  a night,  or 
a longer  season. 

Beaver  River  is  75  or  80  m long,  and  from  its  extreme 
source,  within  a hundred  rods  of  Beach’s  Lake,  (Trout 
Pond),  and  within  5 or  6 m of  Raquette  Lake,  flows  in  a 
southwesterly  direction,  in  a line  nearly  parallel  with  that 
of  Moose  River,  draining  in  its  passage  25  or  30  hand- 
some lakes  and  ponds,  and  discharging  its  waters  into  the 
Black  River,  some  6 or  8 m below  Lowville.  Fifty  miles 
of  its  course  is  buried  in  a dense,  unbroken  wilderness, 
rarely  trodden  by  the  foot  of  man,  and  but  a single  habita- 
tion (Wardwell’s)  in  all  this  extent,  indicates  any  encroach- 
ment upon  its  primitive  character.  Throughout  most  of 
2 


34 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


this  distance,  the  scenery  investing  the  borders  of  the 
river  is  full  of  wildness  and  beauty. 

From  Stillwater  to  Little  Rapids  there  is  a reach  of 
navigation  of  20  or  22  miles,  uninterrupted  save  occasion- 
ally by  a fallen  tree  over  which  boats  must  be  lifted. 

On  account  of  the  sinuosity  of  the  stream,  some  tourists 
prefer,  the  land  route,  even  at  the  expense  of  the  wet  feet 
they  obtain  by  fording  the  streams  that  cross  the  way. 

Let  us  examine  the  different  points  of  interest  em- 
braced by  both  routes  and  first  the  one  by  land  : 

(1).  Two  and  one  half  m beyond  Ward  well’s,  a path  or 
trail  leads  to  the  r from  the  road,  % m to  Mud  Pond,  |ml. 
(The  reader  is  here  reminded  that  there  are  several  “ Mud” 
and  “ Clear”  Ponds  in  the  Adirondacks).  Rock  Shanty 
was  so  named  from  the  fact  that  the  first  cabin  constructed 
there  stood  by  the  side  of  an  immense  rock.  This  occurred 
20  years  ago,  and  the  architects  and  builders  were  Uncle 
Orville  Bailey,  Briggs  Whitman,  Lewis  Diefendorf  and 
Orlando  Reynolds,  all  residents  of  Hunt’s  Corners,  N.  Y. 
The  same  party  also  assisted  Uncle  Chauncey  Smith  in 
rearing  his  woodland  structure  at  South  Branch.  We  are 
thus  particular  in  chronicling  these  unimportant  matters, 
for  the  simple  reason  that  two  of  the  participants  were 
more  or  less  concerned  in  several  events,  some  pleasant 
and  some  mournful,  that  are  recorded  in  these  pages. 

Rock  Shanty  is  situated  within  20  r of  Loon  Lake,  a 
beautiful  little  pond  f-  m 1,  whose  outlet  empties  into 
Beaver  River.  A handsome  pine-tree-covered  island  of  4 
acres,  called  Round  Island,  rises  near  its  center.  Though 
often  visited  by  hunters  it  is  still  frequented  by  deer,  and 
trout  are  abundant  in  its  waters.  Wood’s,  or  Sylvan  Lake, 
another  very  pretty  sheet  of  equal  size,  is  reached  by  trail 


descriptive  guide. 


35 

from  Mud  Pond,  or  from  the  road  a few  rods  S.  W.  of  Rock 
Shanty.  Distance  2 m S.  One  Can  walk  on  its  clean  and 
sandy  shores,  without  difficulty,  entirely  around  it.  There 
is  a large  and  peculiar  rock  near  its  outlet.  It  is  a famous 
locality  for  wild  ducks. 

The  route  to  Big  Moose  Lake,  S.  E.,  offering  the  advan- 
tage of  perfect  solitude,  leaves  the  State  road  i|  m E.  of 
Loon  Lake.  It  was  formerly  traveled  by  pack-horses,  but 
the  road  is  partially  grown  over  now  and  is  but  little  used. 
Twitched  Lake,  (2  x |)  another  smiling  water,  lies  on  the 
route,  6 m from  the  main  road.  It  was  the  scene  of  the 
unfortunate  drowning  of  Briggs  Whitman,  a trapping  com- 
panion of  “ Uncle  O.  Bailey,  by  accidentally  breaking 
through  the  ice  many  years  ago.  This,  and  Wood’s  Lake,  are 
especially  sequestered,  and  their  solitudes  are  seldom  in- 
vaded except  by  the  trapper.  The  scenery  around  them 
is  very  attractive,  and  but  for  the  difficulty  of  reaching 
them  with  boats,  they  would  soon  become  favorite  haunts 
of  the  sportsman,  as  game  and  fish  are  always  plentiful. 
Both  are  tributary  to  Twitched  Creek,  a stream  entering 
the  Beaver  a few  rods  E.  of  Wardwell’s.  It  is  2 m from 
Twitched  Lake  to  Big  Moose  Lake,  (S.  E.j,  Mud  Pond 
lying  midway  between  the  two.  At  South  Branch,  Uncle 
Chauncey’s  double  log  house  is  located  in  the  midst  of  a 
pleasant  clearing.  At  the  confluence  of  E.  and  S.  Branch, 
the  former  flowing  from  two  little  ponds  not  many  miles 
distant,  and  the  latter  from  Deer  and  Slim  Ponds,  still 
deeper  in  the  heart  of  the  forest,  S.  E.  of  Uncle 
Chauncey’s  house,  perhaps  i m,  is  a notable  spring  hole. 
Here,  the  fisher,  rarely  throws  his  fly  in  vain.  A short 
distance  beyond  South  Branch,  the  road  divides,  the  1 hand 
branch  leading  to  Little  Rapids,  (2  m);  and  the  r,  the  Car- 
thage road,  to  Beach’s  Lake,  (9  m).  From  the  latter 


36 


Descriptive  guide. 


route,  3 or  4 rii  beyond  the  forks,  footways  lead  N.  to 
Thayers  Lake,  and  S.  to  Rose  and  Deer  Lakes,  lying  near 
the  road,  and  to  Terror,  etc.,  Lakes,  more  remote.  ( See 
route  from  Albany  Lake  to  these  waters). 

(2).  Three  miles  above  Wardwell’s,  a carry  leaves  the 
river  1 for  Fish  Pond,  so  called  because  it  contains  no  fish. 
One  and  one  half  m farther  up  the  stream,  a path  is  taken  to 
the  r,  to  Little  Burnt  Lake,  (f  x ^,)  only  5 or  6 r distant. 
Two  and  one-half  m above  that,  a stream  empties  into  the 
Beaver,  1,  flowing  from  a series  of  6 or  8 lakes  and  ponds, 
N termed  the  “ Red  Horse  Chain,”  which  furnish  very 
attractive  scenery,  and  which  are  regarded  as  superior 
fishing  and  hunting  localities.  They  are  accessible  with 
boats  over  passable  portages,  as  follows : — Carry  to  Burnt 
Lake,  (f  x i,)  i m.  A very  comely  sheet,  and  being 
so  easily  reached,  is  a popular  camping  ground.  Carry 
from  thence  to  Little  Round  Lake,  (i  « h)  \ m ; thence 
from  W.  side  of  inlet  if  m,  to  Salmon  Lake,  (i^Kf). 
This  lake  is  hemmed  in  by  mountain  peaks,  and  is  greatly 
admired  for  its  picturesque  features.  Carry  from  thence 
if  m,  to  Witchhopple  Lake,  (f  x J-)  ; thence  J m to  Clear 
Lake,  (f  x -|) — water  exceedingly  pure,  and  “ fat  ” with 
trout.  Crooked  Lake  (2  x 1^),  fountain  head  of  Oswegatchie 
River,  and  distinguished  for  its  big  fish,  is  reached  from* 
Clear  Lake,  by  a | m portage  leading  (N). 

East  of  this,  about  2 m,  lies  Nigger  Lake  (1^  x-J),  the 
uppermost  link  of  the  Red  Horse  Chain.  It  is  enveloped 
by  lovely  surroundings,  and  is  considered  the  gem  of  the 
group,  though  each  has  its  peculiar  and  distinctive  charm. 
Being  extremely  difficult  of  access,  and  therefore  left 
almost  entirely  undisturbed  by  sportsmen,  its  borders  are 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


37 


the  frequent  resort  of  deer,  and  its  waters  are  richly  stocked 
with  portly  trout,  comprising  both  speckled  and  salmon. 
Some  of  the  former  here  attain  the  unusual  weight  of  3 
lbs.,  and  the  peculiarly  dark  color  of  the  flesh  of  the  lat- 
ter originated  the  name  of  the  lake. 

About  2\  m N.  W.  of  this  is  Gull  Lake  (i-J  x f),  also 
noted  for  its  beauty  and  its  fine  fishing. 

Partially  between  Nigger  and  Clear  Lakes  lies  Beaver 
Dam  Pond,  S.  W.,  another  link  of  the  “ Chain,”  and 
through  this  leads  the  direct  route  connecting  these  two 
lakes.  (See  route  from  Little  Rapids  and  Albany  Lake 
to  the  Red  Horse  Chain). 

Near  the  mouth  of  the  Red  Horse  stream,  where  the 
carry  to  Burnt  Lake  is  taken,  stands  a comfortable  camp, 
which  is  frequently  occupied  for  a night  by  parties  passing 
up  or  down  the  Beaver.  From  the  opposite  side  of  the 
river  a carry  leads  S.  E.,  \ m,  to  Loon  Lake  and  Rock 
Shanty.  The  South  Branch,  which  enters  the  river,  r, 
about  15  m above  Stillwater,  affords  good  sport  to  the 
fisherman.  By  ascending  this  stream  50  or  60  rods  and 
following  a path  from  thence  r,  \ m,  Uncle  Chauncey 
Smith’s  domicile  may  be  visited. 

Little  Rapids,  5 m beyond  the  mouth  of  South  Branch, 
is  an  important  “ station  ” on  this  route.  Good  camps  and 
cold  water  are  afforded  here.  A carry  leads  from  hence 
N.  W.,  -J  m,  to  Clear  Pond  or  Fall  Lake  .(^  x J),  a noted 
deer  resort ; and  one  from  thence  N.  ij,  to  Big  Rock 
Pond  or  Rock  Lake,  (1  x ■£),  whose  waters,  though  deep  and 
cold,  contain  no  trout,  a singular  exception  to  the  general 
rule.  By  following  a “ line  ” from  this  lake  N.  E.  2\  m> 
— no  carry  yet  cut  out — Nigger  Lake  is  reached  ; and 
other  members  of  the  Red  Horse  Chain  are  accessible 
from  Rock  Lake  by  way  of  Beaver  Dam  Pond,  W.  Only 


38 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


by  the  assistance  of  marked  trees  and  compasses  is  it 
practicable  to  follow  these  rarely  traveled  pathways. 
Boats  must  either  be  towed  up  Little  Rapids  or  carried 
around  them  45  r ; Jm  above  this  point,  near  a sand-bar, 
1,  where  a little  brook  enters  the  river,  there  is  the  most 
remarkable  of  the  many  spring-holes  that  furnish  excel- 
lent trout  fishing  along  this  stream.  One-half  mile  above 
that,  the  second  rapids  are  reached,  through  which  also 
the  boats  must  be  dragged  or  carried,  r,  over  the  uneven 
portage.  From  thence  to  Albany  Lake  (J  m)  navigation 
is  considerably  obstructed  by  boulders. 

Big  Moose  Lake  and  the  intermediate  waters  are  some- 
times visited  from  this  lake  by  the  following  route,  start- 
ing from  the  foot : 

Good  carry,  r,  S.  E.  | m to  Thayer’s  Lake  (ixf), 
excellent  trouting  afforded  here  ; thence  nice  portage  S.  E. 
1 m to  Rose  Pond  ( J x J),  fine  fishing  and  hunting  in  this 
vicinity  ; thence  fair  carry,  little  E.  of  S.,  2 m to  Lake 
Terror,  perhaps  3 m S.  of  State  Road,  (i-j-X'i,)  which 
furnishes  prime  sporting  ground,  as  its  seclusion  is  seldom 
penetrated  by  hunters,  on  accouut  of  the  hardship  attend- 
ing such  an  excursion.  It  received  its  name  from  an 
incident  that  once  occurred  in  the  experience  of  a party  of 
hunters  who  were  overtaken  near  its  shores  by  a terrible 
storm  and  there  compelled  to  spend  the  night  without 
shelter,  exposed  to  its  ravages. 

A “ line”  extends  from  Terror  Lake,  S.  3 m,  to  Big 
Moose  Lake. 

Slim  Pond  and  a number  of  other  sheets  lying  between 
Big  Moose  and  Beach’s  Lakes,  have  hardly  been  explored, 
even  by  the  enterprising  trapper. 

Deer  Pond  lies  near  the  Carthage  road,  S.,  2 m E.  of 
the  portage  leading  from  Thayer’s  Lake  to  Rose  Pond. 


Descriptive  guide. 


39 

Its  shape  is  nearly  circular  (-|  x ^).  Two-pound  speckled 
trout  are  its  chief  commodities,  and  the  quality  of  its 
water  and  lily-pads  is  frequently  tested  by  its  namesake. 

Shingle  Shanty  Lake  (i  x -j),  m farther  S.,  is  reached 
by  a good  portage.  An  old  military  road  passes  near  it. 
A guide  (Charley  Smith)  speaks  of  it  as  a “ pleasant  sheet, 
clear  of  rocks,  and  abounding  in  small  trout  and  some 
deer.” 

A carry  extends  also  from  near  the  outlet  of  Albany 
Lake,  1,  N.  W.  2 m to  Rock  Lake,  before  described.  This 
S.  portion  of  Albany  Lake  is  known  as  the  Lower  Bay 
and  embrces  nearly  J of  its  entire  extent  (5  x |).  We 
will  note  another  favorite  spring-hole,  located  at  the 
entrance  of  a tiny  stream  on  S.  side,  near  the  foot. 

Albany  Lake  is  especially  attractive  to  sportsmen,  for 
the  reason  that  it  is  a remarkable  resort  for  deer  and  large 
speckled  trout.  This  is  somewhat  surprising  as  far  as 
deer  are  concerned,  as  the  lake  is  a common  thoroughfare. 
But  the  rich  aquatic  pastures  of  pond  lilies  and  grassy 
verdure  that  abound,  especially  on  the  Lower  Bay,  present 
a temptation  which  they  are  unable  to  resist. 

The  upper  portion  of  the  lake,  in  direct  contrast  to  that 
of  the  lower  part,  presents  a pleasing  variety  of  sandy 
reaches,  rocky  shores  and  wooded  heights.  There  are 
two  good  camps  located  about  1 m from  the  head,  viz  ; the 
Patridge  Camp,  on  the  S.  E.  side,  near  which  is  a 
splendid  spring,  and  the  “ Eldridge  Camp,”  standing  op- 
posite near  the  inlet  up  which  our  route  lies  to  Smith’s  and 
Salmon  Lakes,  which,  with  Albany  and  a number  of  other 
lakes  and  ponds,  form  the  headwaters  of  Beaver  River. 

At  the  head  of  the  little  bay,  a short  distance  S.  W.  of 
the  Partridge  Camp,  where  a little  brook  discharges  its 
waters,  the  most  noted  spring-hole  of  the  section  may  be 


40 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


found.  In  a direct  line  through  the  trackless  woods  it  is 
2 m S.  to  the  Carthage  road.  Passing  up  the  inlet  a few 
rods,  the  third  rapids  are  encountered.  (We  will  note 
here  for  “ once  and  for  all,”  that  all  such  rapids  in  the 
region  are  the  common  haunts  of  trout).  Boats  may  at 
some  risk  and  by  great  exertion  be  dragged  up  the  stream 
here,  but  they  are  usually  carried,  1,  over  the  fair  portage. 

At  the  head  of  these  rapids,  stands  a dilapidated  dam, 
built  by  order  of  the  State,  some  7 or  8 years  ago,  in  the 
furtherance  of  a plan  for  improving  the  navigation  of  the 
Beaver,  for  the  benefit  of  lumbering  interests,  for  which, 
an  appropriation  of  $10,000  was  made  by  the  Legislature. 
This  amount  was  the  same  as  wasted  in  an  abortive 
attempt  to  accomplish  this  object. 

A passage  of  i{  m up  the  river  from  this  point,  brings 
us  to  Smith’s  Lake,  the  brightest  gem  of  the  Brown  Tract 
waters.  Its  size  is  (3x3)  and  its  shape  like  that  of  a 
letter  X.  Upon  several  of  the  picturesque  islands  it  en- 
circles, especially  Snell’s  Island,  delightful  camping  spots 
are  found.  Traces  of  an  Indian  fortress  are  still  apparent 
on  Pine  Island.  Pleasant  locations  for  camps  abound — with 
nice  near  springs — on  the  N.  W.  shore  and  on  the  S.  E.  side 
on  Eldridge  Bay.  The  “ Syracuse  Camp,”  a short  distance 
above  the  outlet,  is  the  model  of  this  locality.  Tourists  will 
observe  and  respect  the  inscription  addressed  to  them 
upon  the  walls  of  this  sylvan  lodge  : — 

“All  sportsmen  welcome  to  its  use, 

But  not  abuse.” 

Two  other  camps  of  nearly  equal  merit,  stand  within  1 m 
of  this  farther  up  the  lake.  Salmon  trout  weighing  upwards 
of  20  lbs.  are  sometimes  taken  from  these  waters  and 
speckled  trout  of  unusual  size  are  also  obtained. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


41 


* 

Pratt’s  Mountain,  sometimes  called  Smiths  Rock,  rises 
from  the  N.  W.  shore.  Some  30  years  ago,  it  is  said,  an 
Englishman  located  at  the  base  of  this  mountain,  near  the 
beach,  and  for  a long  period  led  a hermit’s  life,  with  no 
companions  but  his  dogs  and  gun.  Several  acres  of  land 
were  cleared  by  him,  now  covered  by  a thrifty  growth  of 
smallish  trees.  “ None  knew  ought  of  his  history,  whence 
he  came,  to  whom  related,  or  by  whom  begot.”  One  win- 
ter some  hunters  in  pursuit  of  deer,  upon  visiting  his 
lodge,  found  it  silent  and  deserted.  From  that  day  to  this 
the  mysterious  stranger,  known  as  Smith,  has  never  been 
seen — nor  has  anything  been  heard  of  his  fate ; and  from 
that  day  to  this,  this  lonely  but  lovely  inland  sea,  sur- 
rounded on  all  sides  by  forests  primeval,  and  nestled  in  the 
bosom  of  a group  of  lofty  hills  and  picturesque  mountains, 
has  been  known  as  Smith’s  Lake. — [James  Grant  Wilson. 

The  path  we  follow  in  ascending  Pratt’s  Mountain,  leads 
from  Smith’s  clearing. 

The  Tupper  waters  are  accessible  from  Smith’s  Lake 
by  three  routes,  two  of  which  are  indirect  and  difficult, 
but  which  possess  the  advantage  of  passing  through  the 
very  best  sporting  grounds  of  the  Brown’s  Tract  region. 

(1).  Carry  from  mouth  of  North  Inlet  (first  sand  beach), 

m N.,  cross  Harrington  Pond  J m ; thence  carry  from 
head  of  pond,  1 m N ; cross  Clear  Pond  (rightly  named, 
but  what  is  wonderful,  contains  no  trout),  \ m ; thence 
carry  1-5  m N.;  cross  Bog  Lake  (ij  * i,  splendid  sporting) 
afforded  here),  thence  carry  from  a point  on  N.  side,  about 
midway  of  its  length,  3 m N.,  or  descend  the  outlet,  push- 
ing your  way,  4 m,  to  Mud  Lake  ; thence  to  Grave’s  at  Big 
Tupper  Lake,  15  m.  {See  route  from  Tupper  to  Mud 


42 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


(2).  Direct  route — Carry  from  the  sandy  beach  N.  E. 
shore,  the  place  being  indicated  by  a rocky  point,  upon 
which  is  a sparse  and  stinted  growth  of  cedar  trees.  On 
one  of  these  trees,  which  serves  as  a guide  board,  is  pen- 
ciled : — 

“ fiT  Portage  to  Charley  Pond,  1 3-4  m. 

W.  W.  Ely,  M.  D.,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

Wm.  W.  Graves,  Guide,  Tupper’s  Lake.” 


We  need  not  say  that  the  former  .is  the  compiler  of  the 
excellent  publication,  “Colton’s  Map  of  the  New  York 
Wilderness,”  and  that  the  latter  was  the  late  lamented 
proprietor  of  “ Sportsman's  Lodge,”  Tupper  Lake. 

This  portage  is  quite  uneven  and  considerably  inter- 
rupted by  fallen  trees. 

A prettier  sheet  than  Charley  Pond  (f  x J)  is  rarely 
seen.  Perfectly  sequestered,  “ with  not  a hand’s  breadth 
of  civilization  around  it,”  it  is  a congenial  spot  for  deer 
and  trout.  Its  name  was  doubtless  derived  from  the  fol- 
lowing incident,  given  by  James  Grant  Wilson,  in  the  lan- 
guage of  one  of  his  guides  - 

“ Eight  years  ago  I was  out  deer  hunting  in  the  winter 
with  two  other  men.  At  Charley’s  Pond,  which  was 
frozen  over,  Charley  Brown  said  he  was  going  across  after 
a deer.  We  told  him  it  was  unsafe,  but  hej  would  go, 
although  the  ice  was  thin  and  rotten,  and,  when  about 
twenty  yards  from  shore,  he  fell  through.  Both  being 
heavier  men,  we  were  afraid  to  venture  on  the  lice  to  aid 
him,  but  we  threw  him  a pole,  which  he  got  hold  of,  and, 
driving  it  into  the  muddy  bottom  of  the  lake,  there  about 
ten  feet  deep,  climbed  up  on  the  ice,  which  again  gave 
way  under  his  weight.  This  he  did  several  times  until 
benumbed  with  cold,  and  unable  to  draw  himself  up,  or 


SMITH’S  LAKE. 


- 

4 . 1 ■ .«*  '«** 


I 

■ 

■ 

t , j-j  Hr  * h«r!  vtfHit  I!  » wiifv^l  t 

' 


. 


* ?) . i f\  '*fO  ■*«“ 


, 


{ 1 

-•  ‘ 


,,  ^laiUf  &*q  mi*W 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


43 


even  to  hold  on  longer,  he  caught  hold  of  the  pole  with 
his  teeth.  When  I got  back  from  our  camp  with  a rope, 
and  threw  it  out  to  him,  he  was  too  far  gone  to  take  hold 
of  it,  so  I determined  to  save  him  at  all  hazards.  I crawled 
out,  lying  flat  on  my  face,  and  moving  as  cautiously  as 
possible.  Not  a word  was  said  as  I slowly  moved  forward, 
nearer,  nearer,  till  at  last  I laid  my  hand  in  his.  It  was 
as  cold  as  the  ice  on  which  I lay.  Poor  Charley  was  frozen 
to  death  ! Fastening  the  rope  around  him  under  the  arm- 
pits,  I cautiously  and  successfully  made  my  way  back,  and 
we  pulled  him  ashore  with  his  teeth  still  fastened  on  the 
pole.  We  had  a sad  time  getting  poor  Charley  back  to 
the  still  water,”  was  the  conclusion  of  the  guide’s  short 
story  of  Charley’s  Pond. 

Pass  over  about-  two-thirds  the  length  of  the  pond,  land 
r E.,  just  off  those  islands,  and  carry  to  Smith’s  Inlet  (out- 
let of  the  sheet),  ^ m — portage  fair,  but  blind  at  com- 
mencement. Inlet  very  shallow  and  narrow  for  the  first  40 
or  50  r,  over  which  boats  must  be  towed  ; thence  to  Little 
Tupper  Lake,  3 m it  is  passable  boating.  We  are  in- 
debted to  “ Honest  John  Plumbley  ” for  pointing  out  to 
us  a notable  spring-hole  located  in  this  stream,  about  1 m 
above  the  lake  on  S.  side — a stake  and  a large  pine  log 
indicating  the  spot. 

(3).  Pass  up  the  S.  E.  Inlet  (really  the  Beaver  River), 
which  enters  Eldridge  Bay.  It  is  a desperately  crooked 
stream,  with  its  navigation  considerably  obstructed  by 
“ flood-jams.”  Avoid  the  branch,  entering  1,  several  miles 
up  ; 5 m above  the  lake,  where  the  river  divides,  take  the 
1 hand  stream  ; r branch  leads  into  Deer,  Little  Rock, 
West  and  Shingle  Shanty  Ponds.  Trout  congregate  at 
these  forks.  From  hence  boats  are  generally  towed  or 


44 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


poled  | or  f m to  the  portage  r of  30  r.  Pass  over  Mud 
Pond  (|-  x i)  bearing  S.  E.  ; very  irregular  in  shape— 
really  two  sheets  connected  by  a short  strait.  Lower 
body  mostly  covered  with  lily-pads,  furnishing  perfect 
feeding  ground  for  deer.  Wolf  killed  here,  2 years  ago, 
by  Milton  H.  Barnes,  of  Long  Lake.  Scenery  generally 
very  gloomy.  Both  salmon  and  speckled  trout  abound  in 
large  numbers  at  mouth  of  inlet,  entering  r S.  E.  Pass 
up  this  stream,  6 or  8 r,  to  the  fair  carry  1 of  J m,  along 
the  rapids.  Camp  at  farther  end. ' 

Follow  stream  again  \ m,  dragging  boats  at  commence- 
ment to  Little  Salmon  Lake  x J) — very  pretty  and 

secluded  ; cross  its  S.  E.  portion  and  take  inlet  r — stream 
straight  and  pleasant.  Numerous  tamarack  trees  serve  to 
render  the  otherwise  dismal  swamp  attractive.  Proceed 
1^  m,  towing  boat,  considerably  ; carry  1,  4 m,  (blind); 
take  the  stream  again — still  shallow  and  narrow — J m ; 
follow  main  channel,  as  branches  enlfer  r and  1.  Forest 
here,  clean  and  pleasant — ground  carpeted  with  moss; 
and  furrowed  by  paths  of  wild  animals  ; carry  r,  ^ m — 
extremely  laborious — mere  “blaze” — portage  should  be 
on  opposite  side  of  stream  ; boating  again  20  r ; carry  over 
ridge  2 or  3 r to  Salmon  Lake  (24  x 1).  This  handsome 
body  of  water  is  one  of  the  chief  sources  of  the  Beaver, 
and  is  encompassed  by  mountains  of  moderate  height, 
which  slope  gracefully  to  the  shores.  Camp  on  W.  side. 
Salmon  trout  are  very  abundant  here  and  of  large  size — 
some  are  caught  weighing  30  lbs.  Fish  for  them  by  the 
buoys.  Carry  from  a point  near  outlet,  up  which  our 
route  to  this  lake  lies,  to  Rock  Pond,  r-J  m,  N.  This  is 
the  noted  “ Murray  Carry” — rough,  swampy,  and  difficult. 
Cross  the  pleasant  waters  of  Rock  Pond— (2  m)  and  carry 
4 m from  N.  extremity  around  the  falls  and  rapids.  Here 


descriptive:  guide. 


45 


the  river  plunges  down  through  a romantic  gorge  ; thence 
follow  stream  3 m to  Little  Tupper  Lake. 

Route  from  Smith's  to  Beach's  or  Brandreth's  Lake  .- 
To  Salmon  Lake  the  route  is  identical  with  that  just  given. 
Pass  to  the  head  of  this  lake  and  up  the  deep  and  pleasant 
inlet,  bordered  by  the  handsome  tamarack,  J m ; carry  r 
1 4 m.  For  a third  of  the  way  numerous  prostrate  trees 
obstruct  the  path  ; middle  portion  smooth  but  swampy  \ 
balance  of  portage  a perfect  forest  road,  which  merges  ir.to 
the  Carthage  road  about  \ m W.  of  Dr.  Brandreth’s 
“ Summer  Shooting  Box,”  situated  at  the  head  of  Beach’s, 
or  more  properly,  Brandreth’s  Lake. 

The  many  charms  presented  by  this  sheet,  elicit  the 
admiration  of  all  its  beholders.  Gentle  elevations,  alter- 
nating with  abrupt  acclivities,  completely  encircle  it. 
Bald  Rock  or  Big  Bluff  rises  in  rugged  prominence  from 
the  S.  E.  shore,  its  precipitous  hoary  sides  glistening  in 
the  sunlight  like  the  snowy  locks  of  a mythical  giant  of 
fabulous  times.  West  Mountain,  lifting  its  forest-clad 
heights  toward  the  eastern  sky,  is  revealed  in  the  shadowy 
distance.  A solitary  island  picturesquely  gems  the  bosom 
of  the  lake,  whose  waters  are  hardly  surpassed  in  their 
crystalline  purity.  Its  size  is  generally  over-estimated,  it 
being  only  2J  m long  by  J m in  breadth,  according  to 
actual  survey,  although  if  its  two  arms  were  included,  its 
length  would  receive  an  additional  mile.  It  is  well  sup- 
plied with  fish,  salmon  trout  being  caught  with  good  suc- 
cess near  Bear  Point  and  in  the  N.  arm  of  the  lake,  and 
speckled  trout  in  the  vicinity  of  Rock  Island. 

Sportsmen  sojourning  here  usually  occupy  one  of  the 
two  Brandreth  houses,  both  of  which  are  very  substantial, 
and  conveniently  fitted  up  with  a view  to  the  requirements 
of  woodland  life. 


46 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Especial  attention  is  called  also  to  suitable  camping 
places  at  Bear  Point,  around  which  the  W.  arm  curves ; 
and  on  the  pleasant  bay  E.  of  the  houses,  along  the 
extended  reach  of  snowy  sand.  Other  attractions  which 
we  will  proceed  to  note,  combine  to  render  this  comely 
lake  one  of  the  most  desirable  centers  for  spirting  purposes 
in  all  the  Wilderness.  Several  lakelets — admirable  fishing 
and  hunting  localities — are  easily  accessible  from  “ Bran- 
drethville.” 

East  Pond  (|  x |),  a charming  water,  is  reached  by  fol- 
lowing the  road  i|  ra  S.  E.,  and  then  the  path  diverging 
1 120  rods,  or  by  boating  down  the  lake  about  £ m,  land- 
ing on  E.  shore  and  proceeding  from  thence  by  path 
perhaps  m E.  To  reach  Trout  or  Little  Rock  Pond 
(i  * i)>  follow  the  path  that  leads  from  the  road  a few  rods  E. 
of  the  clearing,  £ m N.  To  visit  West  Pond  (iixj), 
(formerly  called  Middle  Lake)  row  up  the  W.  arm  of  the 
lake  -§  m,  land  R.  and  pass  over  the  good  portage  4 m N. 

From  the  W.  extremity  of  this  pond,  a trail  leads  2\  m 
N.  W.  to  Thayer’s  Lake  ; and  another  leads  directly  W. 
ij  m to  Deer  Pond. 

South  Pond  (f  x £)  is  reached  by  a hard  carry  of  if  m 
W.,  starting  from  a point  on  W.  shore,  nearly  opposite  and 
just  above  Rock  Island.  By  traversing  this  sheet  and 
carrying  from  thence  J m S.,  the  2 Sister  Ponds  are  vis- 
ited. These  3 bodies  of  water  are  snugly  embowered  in 
“ the  green  depths  of  the  forest,”  and  being  so  seldom 
approached  by  man,  they  are  the  common  abiding  places 
of  deer  and  trout.  The  Sister  Ponds  are  sources  of  the 
Moose  R ; all  the  others  just  noticed  empty  into  the 
Beaver  R.  We  will  briefly  resume  and  conclude  our 
examination  of  Brandreth’s  Lake. 

The  inlet  and  outlet  of  this  sheet,  enter  and  outpour 


INSCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


47 


Vel*y  dose  together,  the  latter  paying  tribute  to  Forked 
Lake,  thus  rendering  Brandreth’s  Lake  one  of  the  fountain 
heads  of  Raquette  River.  The  Carthage  road  skirts 
along  the  margin  of  the  lake  and  is  passable  for  wagons 
from  the  foot  entirely  through  to  Cr.wn  Point.  The 
distance  to  Cary’s  is  7 m,  within  the  first  4 of  which 
Raquette  Lake  is  reached  at  North  Bay,  where  parties 
re-embark  for  other  points. 

From  Lowville  the  Oswegatchie  fishing  grounds  aie 
reached  by  the  following  route,  over  comparatively  good 
roads  : Smith’s  Landing,  2 m ; Dayanville,  3 m ; Croghan, 
on  Beaver  River,  5 m ; Belfort,  on  Beaver  River,  4 m ; 
thence  through  the  forest  to  Oswegatchie  River,  9 m. 
The  waters  in  this  vicinity  are  well  stocked  with  trout 
early  in  the  season,  but  are  not  much  resorted  to  for  sum- 
mer sport.  Deer  shooting  is  said  to  be  good  in  these 
woods.  This  route  is  a favorite  one  for  invalids,  as  they 
can  reach  the  river  with  carriages  and  there  step  at  once 
into  the  boats. 

Parties  should  take  supplies  from  Lowville,  although 
there  are  hotels  at  all  of  the  villages  named.  The  route 
intersects  the  Carthage  road  at  Belfort. 

Tenth — Carthage  is  finely  situated  upon  Black  River, 
and  its  importance  has  been  greatly  increased  by  the 
extension  of  the  Utica  and  Black  River  R.  R.  to  this  place, 
and  by  the  construction  of  the  railway  connecting  it  with 
Watertown.  The  completion  of  these  roads  also  renders 
this  a most  desirable  point  from  which  to  enter  the  forest. 
Most  excellent  hotels  here,  the  Levis,  the  Hatch  and 
the  Adams  House  furnish  prime  accommodation  and  also 
ample  facilities  for  reaching  the  sporting  grounds. 


48 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Carthage  is  the  W.  terminus  of  the  “Old  State  Road,” 
opened  through  the  Wilderness  to  Crown  Point  35  years 
ago.  The  magnitude  of  this  “ forest  waste  ” becomes 
manifest  when  the  length  of  this  road  is  taken  into  con- 
sideration. From  a point  about  20  m E.  of  this  place,  to 
Schroon  River  (Roots)  94^  m,  with  the  exception  of  the 
Long  Lake,  Newcomb’s,  and  several  minor  clearings,  the 
route  lies  through  a wilderness  not  yet  invaded  by  civiliz- 
ation. 

The  following  is  a table  of  distances  from  Carthage  to 


Crown  Point. 

MILES. 

Carthage  to  Belfort,  - --  --  --  --  -15 

Thence  to  No.  4,  - --  --  --  --  --  9 

Stillwater,  - --  --  --  --  - 1 1 

Brandreth’s  Lake,  ( via  Rock  Shanty  and 

South  Branch),  - --  --  - 16 

Raquette  Lake,  (Cary,s,)  ------  10 

Long  Lake  Village,  - --  --  --  13J 
Newcomb,  (Pendleton,)  - --  --  -13 

Tahawus,  (Lower  Iron  Works,)  - - - 

Schroon  River,  (Roots)  ------  19 

Crown  Point,  - - - --  --  --  19 


Total,  ------------  133I 


As  noted  elswhere,  only  portions  of  this  road  are  trav- 
eled by  wagons  now,  viz : — Carthage  to  Stillwater,  and 
from  Brandreth’s  Lake  to  Crown  Point. 

In  entering  the  woods  from  Carthage,  parties  usually 
travel  2 routes ; one  by  way  of  No,  4,  and  thence  up  the 
Beaver  River,  or  to  other  points  as  their  inclinations  may 
t uggest,  the  road  being  good  as  far  as  Belfort,  and  passably 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


'49 


So  from  thence  to  No.  4;  the  other  leading  to  Harris- 
ville,  20  m distant,  (passing  through  the  intermediate 
village  of  Natural  Bridge,  9 m),  and  from  thence  up  the 
W.  branch  of  the  Oswegatchie  River  and  its  tributaries, 
to  the  numerous  affluent  lakes  and  ponds  situated  therein, 
or  from  Harrisville  through  Pitcairn  and  E.  Pitcairn  and 
Fine  to  the  E.  branch  of  the  same  river,  which  furnishes 
good  boating  from  thence,  interrupted  only  by  2 easy  port-, 
ages  of  20  r,  and  f m through  a dense  and  primitive  forest, 
to  Cranberry  Lake,  n m. 

The  road  from  Carthage  to  Fine  is  excellent  the  entire 
distance.  About  4 m this  side  of  Harrisville,  the  route 
passes  near  Bonaparte  Lake  (a  wagon  road  extending  to 
its  margin),  which  richly  abounds  in  fish,  and  which  is 
surpassed  in  beauty  of  scenery  by  but  few  of  the  Wilderness 
lakes.  It  covers  about  1200  acres— encircles  several  wild, 
rocky  islands  and  is  environed  by  bold,  precipitous  shores. 
It  was  named  in  honor  of  Joseph  Bonaparte,  ex-king  01 
Naples  and  Spain,  who  at  one  time  was  possessor  of  the 
town  of  Diana,  and  who  erected  a rustic  lodge  upon  the 
banks  of  the  lake  for  the  use  of  himself  and  companions 
while  out  upon  sporting  excursions  during  his  sojourn  at 
his  summer  residence  at  Natural  Bridge.  It  has  been 
cerebrated  in  song  by  the  Hon.  Caleb  Lyons,  of  Lyons- 
dale. 

There  is  a good  hotel  at  Harrisville,  Harrisville  Hotel, 
(Ball  and  Bliss) — from  which  parties  can  sally  forth  in  the 
morning,  find  and  enjoy  capital  fishing  through  the  day, 
and  return  to  the  house  in  the  evening.  A rail  road  is  in 
process  of  construction  from  Harrisville  to  Carthage. — 
[O.  S.  Levis. 

Eleventh—  Governeur  is  beautifully  located  on  the 

3 


50 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Oswegatchie  River,  and  is  the  seat  of  a flourishing 
academy,  and  of  a thriving  trade.  A rich  variety  of 
interesting  minerals  abound  in  the  neighborhood.  The 
Van  Buren  House,  the  Central  House  and  Spencer’s  Inn, 
are  the  principal  hotels. 

Cranberry  Lake,  well  in  the  heart  of  the  Wilderness,  is 
the  chief  resort  for  hunting  parties  starting  from  this 
point.  To  Hailesboro  the  distance  is  2 m ; thence  to 
Fowler,  4 m ; Fuller ville,  3 m ; Edwards,  6 m ; Fine,  10 
m ; thence  by  boat  up  the  Oswegatchie,  as  by  the  Car- 
thage route  to  Cranberry  Lake,  1 1 m,  encountering  on 
the  way  two  portages,  one  of  20  r and  the  other  of  ^ m ; 
the  latter  occurring  near  the  lake.  Total,  36  m. 

Twelfth — From  DeKalb  Junction  (Union  Hotel)  to 
Hermon,  6 m ; Russell  (Grass  River),  6 m ; Clarksboro 
(Clifton  Hotel),  12  m;  Clifton  Iron  Mines,  2 m — over  an 
excellent  wagon  road  ; thence  to  Cranberry  Lake,  10  m, 
over  a poor  road.  There  is  a daily  stage  from  DeKalb 
Junction  to  Clarksboro,  where  conveyances  may  be  ob- 
tained for  the  balance  of  the  route.  The  R.  R.  connecting  the 
Iron  Mines  with  E.  DeKalb  Station  is  not  in  operation 
now.  In  fact  it  never  was  employed  as  a transit  for  pas- 
sengers, being  solely  used  by  the  Clifton  Iron  Co.,  by  whom 
it  is  owned,*  in  the  transportation  of  iron  ore,  which  exists 
in  considerable  quantities  in  this  neighborhood. 

Clarksboro  is  3 m in  the  woods.  Tooley  Pond,  8 m 
beyond,  and  Davis  Pond,  3 m beyond  that , on  the  route 
are  good  deer  resorts.  The  road  strikes  the  Oswegatchie 
2 m below  the  lake,  where  is  located  a little  settlement. 
Here  supplies,  boats,  etc.,  may  be  procured  of  G.  M.  Dillon, 

*Our  thanks  are  due  to  Supervisor  James  Sheridan  for  information 
endered  respecting  this  route. 


descriptive  guide. 


St 


Jr.,  and  others ; and  here  parties  may  embark  for  the 
lake — passing  up  the  river  m.  and  carrying  from 
thence  over  a good  wagon  road  \ m ; it  should  be  remem- 
bered that  boats  descend  this  stream  to  Fine,  1 1 m. 

A new  and  commodious  hotel  is  located  at  the  termin- 
us of  the  road,  in  full  view  of  the  lake  and  of  Silver  P. 
(ijxf) — a silvery  sheet  but  60  r.  away.  It  needs  no 
better  recommendation  than  the  announcement  that  the 
veteran  guide  and  hunter,  Richard  Thomas,  (P.  O.  Clarks- 
boro,  St.  Lawrence  Co.,)  with  his  forest  experience  of 
nearly  30  years,  is  its  proprietor.  (See  Addenda.)  Stages 
now  run  daily  from  De  Kalb  Junction  to  Cranberry  Lake. 

Cranberry,  or  Oswegatchie  Lake,  (9  m.  long)  is  really 
an  expansion  of  the  Oswegatchie  River,  which,  rising 
by  two  branches  in  N.  part  of  Herkimer  Co.,  pursues  a 
circuitous  course  of  125  m.  through  St.  Lawrence  Co., 
in  a N.  W.  direction,  and  unites  with  the  St.  Lawrence 
River  at  Ogden  sburg. 

The  waters  of  the  lake  are  plentifully  supplied  with 
fish — having  yielded  in  some  instances,  speckled  trout, 
5 lbs.  in  weight — and  the  hunting  around  it  is  still  very 
good,  although  somewhat  injured  in  reference  to  deer,  by 
the  raising  of  the  lake  some  1 5 ft.  by  means  of  a dam. 
The  scenery  immediately  surrounding  it  is  also  affected 
by  the  same  agency,  as  numerous  “drowned”  trees  stand- 
ing in  the  water  near  the  shores,  greatly  mar  its  beauty. 

Clear,  Mud  and  Trout  Ponds,  E.  and  Oval  Pond  S., 
are  accessible  by  trails.  Curtis  Pond  is  reached  by  boat- 
ing up  E.  Inlet  as  far  as  practicable,  and  following  from 
thence  a good  path  2 m.  S.  E. 

Crooked  Lake,  the  extreme  source  of  the  Oswegatchie, 
lying  12  m S.,  is  reached  by  pursuing  a line  indicated 
by  marked  trees.  It  is  much  more  easily  visited,  how- 
ever, from  the  Red  Horse  Chain.  ( See  route  Ninth) 


52 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


There  are  a large  number  of  good  deer  and  trout  ponds 
adjacent  to  Cranberry  Lake,  that  have  never  been  laid 
down  upon  any  map.  Take  it  all  in  all,  this  lake  and  its 
vicinity  afford  an  extensive  field  for  the  sportsman. 

Adventurous  parties  sometimes  penetrate  the  Bog 
River  region  from  Cranberry  Lake,  and  proceed  from 
thence  to  Tupper  Lake  by  the  following  routes : 

(i.)  By  boat,  i m.  up  Chair  Rock  Creek,  entering  the 
lake’s  S.  E.  extremity  ; thence  carry  2 m.  S.  W.  ; thence 
cross  Oval,  or  Darn  Needle  Pond  ; thence  carry  2\  m.  S. 
E.  to  Fourth  Pond.  (One  authority,  Clark  Town,  states 
that  there  is  a portage  opened  from  Chair  Rock  C.  to 
the  headwaters  of  Bog  R.  Distance  3 m.) 

(2.)  Carry  from  Darn  Needle  or  Oval  Pond,  2 m.  S.  E.  ; 
cross  Grass  Pond ; carry  2 m.  S.  E.,  striking  Bog  R.  a little 
below  Mud  Lake.  Or  carry  from  Oval  P.  to  Gull  P.  (J  x J) 
| m.  S.  E.  ; thence  carry  1 m.  S.  E.,  to  Graves  P. 

(3.)  Prom  Curtis  Pond,  carry  S.  E.  to  Silver  Lake  ; 
thence  S.  W.  to  Otter,  Graves  and  Fourth  Ponds.  The 
portages  are  not  cut  out  to  any  extent,  but  this  could 
be  accomplished  with  a little  labor,  as  they  are  not  very 
difficult.  (See  route  from  Tupper  to  Mud  Lake .) 

Thirteeiith — Potsdam,  a lively  and  growing  village,  is 
located  on  Raquette  River,  which  is  here  “ divided  by 
islands,  broken  by  rapids,  and  furnishes  an  extensive 
water-power.” 

It  is  a pleasant  town,  possessing  many  fine  streets  and 
handsome  buildings,  and  is  the  site  of  the  “ State  Nor- 
mal and  Training  School  for  Northern  New  York.” 
There  are  two  good  hotels  in  the  place,  viz  : the  Matte- 
son,  and  the  American,  at  the  former  of  which  guides 
and  conveyances  may  be  procured.  (See  Addenda.)  This 


'DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


53 


route  to  the  Great  Wilderness  is  generally  much  under- 
rated and  hence  only  occasionally  followed  by  the  general 
tourist,  but  it  really  possesses  many  attractions  in  the  way 
of  diversified  scenery  and  sporting  opportunities,  rarely 
excelled.  A pleasant  ride  of  only  4 hours  from  the  cars, 
over  a most  excellent  road  (2 i-J-  miles),  is  all  the  exertion 
it  costs  to  reach  good  fishing  and  hunting  territory. 

To  Colton,  the  last  place  of  importance  on  the  route, 
it  is  9 m.  This  is  a flourishing  village  and  it  contains  a 
hotel,  the  “ Empire  Exchange.”  of  whose  superior  accom- 
modations and  rtianagement  any  country  town  in  the  State 
might  be  proud.  Mr.  C.  C.  Sanborn,  its  proprietor,  ap- 
preciates the  wants  of  his  guests  and  caters  to  their 
tastes  in  a courteous  and  satisfactory  manner.  The 
ample  livery  connected  with  the  establishment  is  con- 
ducted with  special  reference  to  sporting  parties. 

From  Colton  to  South  Colton  or  Three  Falls,  a little 
hamlet,  it  is  4%  m.;  thence  to  Stark’s  Falls,  at  the  foot  ol 
the  Little  Bog  it  is  8 m.  Here,  at  the  “ Forest  House,”  the 
sportsman  takes  his  first  meal  (always  an  excellent  one) 
in  the  woods  ; here  also  boats  are  taken,  and  at  this  point 
the  sporting  field  commences.  This  pleasant  hotel 
possesses  adequate  facilities  for  supplying  the  wishes  of 
transient  customers  or  those  who  desire  permanent  board 
while  availing  themselves  of  the  attractions  and  advan- 
tages offered  by  the  Bog  and  the  surrounding  ponds. 
Boats  and  guides  can  be  engaged  here  at  any  time  by  ad- 
dressing, “ Norton  & Snell,  Colton,  St.  Lawrence  Co.,  N. 
Y.”  Concord  coaches  daily  (p.  m.)  from  Potsdam  to 
Stark’s  Falls  ; fare,  $2.  From  hence  the  journey  is 
continued  by  boat  or  wagon  at  the  traveler’s  option. 
Proceeding  by  land,  a drive  of  6^  m.  over  a fair  woods  road, 
carries  us  to  the  “Jordan  House,”  at  the  head  of  the  Bog 


$4 


Descriptive  GufDfi. 


Continuing  from  Stark’s  Falls  by  water,  a row  of  i£  m. 
conveys  us  to  Bog  Falls,  the  termination  of  Little  Bog. 
Crossing  a portage  of  io  r,  easily  accomplished,  as  the 
boat  is  drawn  over  on  a track  without  being  unloaded,  ve 
reach  the  Jordan  House,  at  the  head  of  the  Big  Bog  and 
near  the  mouth  of  Jordan  River,  by  an  easy  row  of  5 m. 
It  is  proper  to  remark  that  the  name  “Bog,”  as  applied  to 
the  6}  m.  of  river  just  mentioned,  is  a sad  misnomer.  It 
possesses  nothing  of  the  character  of  a bog;  but  with  its 
islands  and  scenery,  is  one  of  the  pleasantest  portions  of 
the  Raquette.  On  the  right  are  high  banks,  and  in  the 
distance  elevated  hills  ; on  the  left  is  undulating  lowland 
covered  with  small  timber,  and  in  the  remote  back  ground, 
tower  the  grand  Adirondacks.  On  this  stretch  of  still- 
water,  too,  occurs  some  of  the  best  deer  hunting  and  trout 
fishing  found  any  where  on  the  route. 

The  Jordan  House  is  well  kept  by  M.  N.  Ober,  and 
persons  not  desiring  to  camp  out,  but  to  secure  a board- 
ing place  in  the  heart  of  good  sporting  grounds,  will  find 
this  a most  desirable  location.  His  table  is  invariably 
well  laden  with  all  the  fine  things  the  water  and  forest 
produce,  and  each  summer  brings  to  him  an  increasing 
number  of  boarders.  F rom  here  access  is  easily  gained  to 
Chandler,  Clear  and  Crooked  Ponds,  by  taking  a short 
tramp  back  from  the  river.  From  Ober’s  to  Seavey’s 
boat-landing,  at  the  foot  of  Moosehead  Stillwater,  a 
“ draw-by  ” of  8 m.  succeeds,  passing  Rickey’s  Rapids, 
Jamestown  Falls,  Moody  Falls  and  Percefield  Long  Rap- 
ids. Mr.  O.  and  Mr.  S.  hold  themselves  in  readiness  to 
transport  parties  and  baggage  over  this  road  ; price,  $4. 
Six  and  a half  miles  above  Ober’s  and  2 m.  from  Moose- 
head,  a road  branches  from  this  route,  leading  to  “ Cronk’s 
Lodge,”  near  the  head  of  Big  Tupper  Lake.  Distance 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


55 


about  18  m.  At  Seavey’s  place  we  will  be  provided  with 
boats  and  all  necessary  accommodations.  Leaving  the  foot 
of  Moosehead  Stillwater  (6^  m 1',  we  have  4 m of  good 
navigation,  passing  on  the  way  (3  m up)  the  line  of  the 
“ Great  Windfall”  of  1845,  embracing  an  area  50  m 1 by 
i m wide.  We  then  encounter  about  50  r of  “ quick 
water,”  succeeded  by  2%  m of  easy  rowing,  terminating 
at  the  foot  of  Hedge  Hog  Rapids.  The  Moosehead  Still- 
water is  dotted  here  and  there  with  many  pretty  islands, 
and  as  the  river  winds  around  and  between  numerous  hills 
and  mountains  on  either  side,  it  presents  a great  variety 
of  pleasing  scenery.  This  Stillwater  affords  many  agree- 
able camping  grounds  along  the  dry  and  pleasant  shores. 
The  sportsman,  too,  will  find  his  occupation  successful 
here.  From  a point  near  the  head,  a good  path  leads  r 1 
m to  Jock’s  Pond,  near  Moosehead  Mountain — a noted 
deer  resort.  Lily  Pad  Brook,  entering  the  river  in  this 
vicinity,  is  a famous  trout  stream. 

At  Hedge  Hog  or  Flat  Rock  Rapids,  (an  excellent  fish- 
ing locality)  occurs  a portage  of  50  r.  Experienced  guides, 
when  the  water  was  low,  have  rowed  up  these  rapids  with 
great  exertion  ; but  the  usual  practice  is  to  tow  the  boats 
or  carry  around  them.  From  thence,  after  traversing  Burnt 
Island  Stillwater,  J m 1,  we  reach  the  “ Piero,”  where  we 
carry,  1,  6 r.  Passing  over  60  r of  rapid  water  and  the  Blue 
Mt.  Stillwater,  3 m in  extent  with  one  little  passage  of  quick 
water  we  arrive  at  Downey’s  Landing,  W.  side.  The  scenery 
along  the  portion  of  the  route  just  passed  is  grand  and 
beautiful.  Some  go  so  far  as  to  say  that  there  is  no  finer 
river  scenery  in  the  State. 

Parties  wishing  to  make  Massawepie  Lake  and  the  ad 
jacent  waters  their  camping  grounds,  leave  the  river  at 
Downey’s  Landing,  and  take  the  good  road  leading  W. 


56 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


t 


1 2 m to  Catamount  Pond.  Noah  Gale,  residing  on  the 
banks  of  this  sheet,  does  the  business  of  transportation, 
and  also  furnishes  boats,  supplies,  etc.  A short  passage 
across  the  pond  and  from  thence  over  a portage  W.  60  r, 
takes  us  to  Massawepie  Lake.  From  there  we  may  visit 
Horseshoe,  Bay,  Pine,  and  Boottree  Ponds,  near  by,  and  I 
Deer  and  Egg  Ponds  farther  away.  These  waters  are  all  j 
sources  of  Grass  River,  which,  rising  in  the  S.  E.  part  of  ! 
St.  Lawrence  Co.,  flows  in  a N.  direction  to  the  S.t.  Law-  ] 
rence  River,  which  it  enters  opposite  to  Cornwall  Island, 
Canada.  Leaving  Downey’s  Landing  on  our  way  up  the  j 
river,  we  immediately  encounter  Sol’s  Island  Rapids,  j m 1 
in  extent  including  the  “ Upper”  and  “ Lower  Pitch,”  where  J 
there  are  2 portages  of  20  r and  10  r,  respectively.  The  ] 
remainder  of  the  rapids  may  be  towed  or  rowed,  according  j 
to  the  ability  of  the  guides.  Then  succeeds  2\  m of  com-  j 
parative  Stillwater,  including  Dead  and  Averill’s  or  Black 
Rapids  (|  or  | m above  Sol’s  Island  Rapids),  up  which  j 
boats  are  rowed  without  much  difficulty. 

A grander  exhibition  is  seldom  witnessed  in  the  woods 
than  that  which  the  tourist  finds  in  Percefield  High  Falls,  j 
as  seen  in  the  distance  when  turning  a bend  in  the  river  j 
at  the  head  of  Averill’s  Rapids,  1 m below.  Over  a rug-  I 
ged  ledge  of  rocks,  the  Raquette  fiercely  sweeps  to  a granite  J 
shelf  below,  where  the  water  is  thrown  up  in  finest  spray  or 
maddened  foam  ; thence  it  leaps  to  another  shelf,  from  j 
which  it  pours  a seething  mass  into  the  agitated  depths 
beneath.  The  river  falls  in  sheer  decent  35  ft.  Here  is  a j 
hard  carry  up  the  face  of  the  rock  and  over  the  steep  bank, 
of  1 5 r.  Then  follows  J or  J m of  Stillwater,  succeeded  by  ■ 
Fish  Hawk  Rapids,  covering  a distance  of  about  50  r,  I 
through  5 or  8 r of  which  boats  must  be  towed  or  carried,  j 
Thence  there  are  2J  or  3 m of  Stillwater  to  Setting  Pole 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


5 7 


Rapids  or  Reservoir  Dam,  where  there  is  a portage  of  6 r 
From  thence  to  Raquette  Pond  it  is  2 m ; through  this 
pond  2 m ; up  Raquette  River  to  Big  Tupper  Lake  2 m. 
Thus  the  distance  from  Potsdam  to  this  lake  is  about  58  or 
60  m.  There  are  numerous  lakes  and  ponds  on  either  side 
of  the  river,  scattered  along  between  Stark’s  Falls  and 
Tupper  Lake,  easily  accessible  from  the  route  and  per- 
fectly adapted  to  sporting  purposes.  The  Raquette  also 
receives  numerous  tributaries,  the  mouths  of  which  afford 
good  fishing  during  the  summer  months,  as  do  the  rapids 
in  the  earlier  part  of  the  season. 

Moqntain  Brook,  entering  from  the  E.  below  Sol’s  Island 
Rapids,  and  Dead  Creek  on  the  opposite  side,  about  5 m 
above,  are  especially  noted  for  the  size  and  quantity  of  the 
trout  they  yield. 

The  stillwaters,  as  well  as  the  neighboring  ponds,  offer 
prime  deer  hunting.  The  river,  interspersed  as  it  is  with 
many  islands,  and  varied  by  frequent  falls  and  rapids,  pre- 
sents to  the  admirer  of  nature  a succession  of  enchanting 

O 

scenes.  The  graduated  unevenness  of  its  mountain 
scenery,  and  the  abrupt,  ever-changing  appearance  of  its 
shores,  together  with  the  varying  colors  of  the  forest 
foliage,  afford  the  lover  of  the  beautiful,  ample  compensa- 
tion for  the  labors  of  his  journey  * 

Fourteenth — “ Ogdensburg.I — The  site  of  this  interest- 
ing town  was  occupied  by  a Catholic  Mission  at  an  early  day. 
The  ruins  of  the  Fort  La  Presentation,  erected  by  the 

*For  the  description  of  this  route  the  writer  is  under  obligations  to 
Messrs.  “De Wolf,”  of  Potsdam,  N.  Y.,  and  A.  B.  Hepburn,  of  Colton, 
New  York. 

tOgdensburg,  Massena  Springs  and  Rouse’s  Point,  though  not  strictly 
“ gateways  ” to  the  Wilderness,  are  classed  as  such,  for  the  information  of 

Canadian  tourists.  / 


58 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


French  in  1748,  remain.  Ogdensburg  stands  near  the 
confluence  of  the  Oswegatchie  with  the  St.  Lawrencejand 
is  a prosperous  place,  possessing  important  commercial 
and  manufacturing  advantages.  Several  steamboat  com- 
panies connect  it  with  the  commerce  of  the  St.  Lawrence 
and  great  lakes.  The  Ogdensburg  and  Lake  Champlain, 
and  Rome,  Watertown  and  Ogdensburg  Railroads,  termin- 
ate here.  The  structures  of  the  former  are  on  a magnifi- 
cent scale.  Nearly  a mile  of  wharves  extend  along  the 
river,  with  a grain  elevator  of  the  largest  size  at  one 
extremity.  A steam  ferry  connects  these  roads  with  the 
Grand  Trunk  and  Ottawa  and  Prescott  Railways,  The 
city  is  agreeably  laid  out  in  broad  and  straight  streets,  and 
contains  many  elegant  private  mansions  and  imposing 
public  edifices.  On  the  opposite  shore  of  the  St.  Law- 
rence may  be  observed  the  remains  of  the  stone  wind-mill, 
the  scene  of  an  heroic  defence  during  the  Rebellion  of 
1837,  maintained  by  a small  band  of  patriots  against  a far 
superior  British  force.  The  population  of  Ogdensburg  is 
about  12,000.  The  principal  hotels  are  the  Seymour  House, 
Johnson  House  and  Myers  House. 

Tourists  bound  for  the  Adirondacks  proceed  from  hence 
by  railroad  to  Potsdam,  31  m;  Brasher  Falls,  36  m; 
Moira,  47  m ; Malone,  61  m ; Chateaugay,  73  m ; 
Plattsburg,  126  m. 

Fifteenth. — “ Massena  Springs. — These  waters  have 
been  for  a long  period  widely  celebrated,  and  it  is  a tradi- 
tion that  their  healing  properties  were  known  to  the  ab- 
origines. The  springs  (of  which  St.  Regis  is  the  most 
important)  are  five  in  number  and  not  essentially  different 
in  their  medicinal  qualities.  They  are  situated  on  the 
Raquette  river  and  are  four  miles  from  the  steam- 


WHITE'S  HOTEL. 
(Massena,  N.  Y. 


. 


- 1 

' ; »>o  •:  V\  -v : ‘f.  {•  'tlMM 

tsrrtt  » 

r 

j-i . 1 »o'  >ih  m ms 

- 

■ 



. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


59 


boat  landing  on  the  St.  Lawrence,  — to  which  stages 
regularly  run, — and  four  from  Long  Sault  Rapids,  one 
of  the  most  attractive  scenes  on  the  river.”  (Watson.) 
The  surroundings  of  the  springs  are  extremely  beautiful, 
and  the  climate  in  this  locality  is  very  healthful.  There 
are  other  attractions  besides  the  springs.  To  the  pisca- 
torial tourist  this  section  is  full  of  interest.  A finer 
fishing  center  can  hardly  be  found.  Here,  he  is  within 
striking  distance  of  three  rivers  which  furnish  fish  in 
rich  variety  and  profusion,  including  bass,  pickerel  and 
the  celebrated  masq’allonge.  Putting  his  boat  in  the 
lovely  Raquette,  which  sweeps  along  within  a few  rods 
of  the  Hatfield  House — an  elegant  structure  recently 
erected  at  the  springs — he  can  pass  to  the  St.  Lawrence 
(i 2 m ,)  shooting  like  an  arrow  down  the  exciting  but 
not  dangerous  rapids  that  intervene  ; thence  up  the  St 
Lawrence  (3  m.,)  or  much  further  if  he  desire  ; thence 
up  Grass  River  to  the  dam  (8  m ,)  which  is  only  1 m. 
below  White’s  Hotel,  at  Massena  Village — a short  mile 
from  the  springs.  What  a delightful  trip  for  a day.  The 
Long  Sault  Rapids  can  be  run  safely  with  small  boats, 
and  in  the  eddies  below  is  the  finest  of  masq’allonge 
fishing.  The  Long  Rapids  on  the  Raquette,  9 m.  below 
the  springs,  are  the  special  haunts  of  legions  of  white 
fish  rarely  found  elsewhere  in  the  vicinity.  Trout  also 
are  caught  in  the  neighborhood.  Up  Earl  Creek  a short 
distance,  which  empties  into  the  river  4 m.  above  these 
rapids,  in  May,  1874,  the  late  lamented  David  J. 
Mitchell,  of  Syracuse,  captured  118  bass,  2 pickerel  and  1 
pike — averaging  over  2 lbs.  each — in  3 or  4 hours’  fish- 
ing. Similar  examples,  illustrating  the  fruitfulness  of  these 
streams,  might  be  multiplied  to  any  extent. 

At  White’s  Hotel — a thoroughly  built  and  spaciou- 


6o 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


edifice — the  traveler  will  find  everything  in  the  way  of 
courteous  attention,  pleasant  apartments,  and  well- 
furnished  tables  that  the  most  exacting  could  require. 
It  is  a model  establishment,  having  few  superiors  in 
Northern  New  York,  and  the  proprietor,  Mr.  H.  B. 
White,  (P.  O.  Massena,)  is  one  of  the  most  popular 
landlords  in  the  business.  Enthusiastic  Waltonian  as 
he  is,  too,  he  knows  just  what  the  angler  needs  and  where 
to  conduct  him  to  enjoy  magnificent  sport.  It  was  under 
his  guidance  that  Mr.  Mitchell  had  his  extraordinary 
success.  The  charges  are  very  reasonable  for  a house 
of  this  class. 

Concord  stages  run  daily  to  Potsdam  Junction  (15  m.,) 
from  which  it  is  6 m.  by  R.  R.  to  Potsdam,  and  to 
Brasher  Falls  Depot  (10  m.,)  both  stations  on  the 
Ogdensburg  & Lake  Champlain  R.  R 


DIVISION  II. 


INTO  THE  CHATEAUGAY  AND  ST.  REGIS  WOODS. 

The  impression  usually  entertained,  that  the  Chateaugay 
portion  of  the  Northern  Wilderness,  has  been  so  far 
encroached  upon  by  settlements  as  to  be  unworthy  of 
consideration  as  a resort  to  sportsmen,  is  in  the  main  in- 
correct. Indeed,  so  far  is  this  from  being  true,  that  even 
the  “ happy  hunting  grounds  of  the  Saranac  ” are  hardly 
superior  for  sporting  purposes  to  the  once  famed  woods 
of  the  “ Shatagee.”  The  usual  points  of  entrance  to  this 
section — also  to  that  of  St.  Regis,  lying  immediately  be- 
low, are  Moira,  Malone,  Chateaugay  and  Rouse’s  Point, 
each  a station  on  the  Northern  or  Ogden sburg  and  Lake 
Champlain  R.  R.,  and  Plattsburg,  the  S.  terminus  of  the 
Plattsburg' and  Montreal  R.R. 

Sixteenth. — From  Moira  (Aldrich’s  Hotel)  to  Dickin- 
son, 6 m ; Dickinson  Center — a nice  little  village  on 
Deer  River  (Dustin’s  Hotel),  2\  m ; Lincolnson — large 
tannery  here  (McNeils  Hotel),  3 m ; “ Humphrey  Nine 
Mile  Level,”  St.  Regis  River,  9 m.  Total  2o|  m.  Stages 
run  daily  from  Moira  to  Lincolnson,  to  which  point  the 
road  is  excellent.  Fare  $1.00.  Here  private  conveyances 


62 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


may  be  procured  for  the  conclusion  of  the  journey,  which 
portion  of  the  route  is  a comfortable  forest  road,  or  if 
timely  notice  is  given;  the  proprietor  of  “Spring  Cove 
Cottage,  ” at  the  “ Level,  ” will  meet  parties  at  the 
“ tannery,  ” and  convey  them  to  his  residence  for  a fair 
compensation.  Address,  “ D.  S.  Smith,  Dickinson  Center, 
Franklin  Co.,  N.  Y.”  The  mail  reaches  him  every  Saturday. 

Not  until  recently  has  the  attention  of  sportsmen  been 
attracted  in  this  direction.  Indeed,  but  few  are  aware  of 
the  existence  of  such  a route. 

The  following  is  the  history  of  “ Spring  Cove  Cottage,” 
furnished  us  by  a gentleman  intimately  acquainted  with 
the  facts  : 

The  wife  of  Mr.  Smith  had  suffered  from  hereditary 
lung  disease,  aggravated  by  scrofula  in  throat  and  stomach, 
for  a period  of  16  years — -just  half  of  her  lifetime  thus  far. 
After  almost  the  complete  list  of  patent  medicines  had 
been  tested,  and  the  “ M.  D.’s  ” had  fully  decided  that 
she  must  speedily  die,  it  happily  occurred  to  the  husband, 
as  a forlorn  hope,  that  her  life  might  be  slightly  protracted 
by  the  pure  mountain  air  of  the  Wilderness  region,  medi- 
cated by  the  healing  aroma  of  the  forest  trees.  The  idea, 
though  one  of  desperation,  was  put  into  execution,  and 
upon  a bed  she  was  conveyed  into  the  woods,  near  this 
point,  about  2 years  ago.  The  result  was  truly  extraor- 
dinary. Shanty  life  with  its  concomitants  soon  produced 
a marvelous  effect  upon  her  disease — stricken  constitution ; 
her  recovery  was  most  rapid,  and  within  a year  she  was 
thoroughly  healed.  And  it  is  reported  to  us  at  this  writ- 
ing, in  answer  to  enquiries,  that  “ Mrs  Smith,  the  invalid 
lady  to  whom  you  allude  as  so  wonderfully  restored,  has 
no  longer  any  cough  and  is  apparently  well.  Indeed, 
through  the  past  year  $he  has  enjoyed  sound  sleep  and 


descriptive  guide.  6^ 

good  health,  and  has  performed  an  amount  of  work  that 
was  a matter  of  surprise  and  comment  to  all  her  acquaint 
ances.  For  a long  time  she  has  been  able  to  dispense  with 
the  expensive  luxury  of  physicians,  her  regular  attendants 
throughout  the  previous  16  years.” 

Other  well  authenticated,  instances  of  equally  remark- 
able cures  wrought  by  a season  of  camp  life  passed  in  this 
section,  might  be  given  would  space  permit.  They  all 
serve  to  prove  the  peculiar  salubrity  and  curative  charac- 
teristics of  this  particular  portion  of  the  Great  Wilder- 
ness.* 

Another  correspondent  (Mr.  Fay)  writes  us  as  follows 
in  reference  to  this  locality : 

“ The  past  week  I spent  in  the  woods  and  enjoyed  some 
excellent  sport.  The  weather  was  very  severe  and  the 
snow  very  deep,  or  I should  have  made  a longer  tarry  of 
it.  Had  plenty  of  trout  and  venison,  however,  with  which 
to  line  our  ribs.  If  not  too  late  for  publication  I would 
like  to  give  you  a few  items  concerning  the  section  of  the 
Adirondacks  I have  just  visited. 

“ It  is  as  yet  but  little  known  to  the  sporting  fraternity, 
but  will  doubtless  ere  long  become  a popular  resort.  The 
district  to  which  I refer,  embraces  the  S.  W.  corner  of 
Franklin  Co.,  and  the  particular  locality  to  which  I invite 
your  attention,  is  in  the  vicinity  of  what  is  known  as  the 
“ Nine  Mile  Level,”  a reach  of  Stillwater  occurring  in  the 
Middle  St.  Regis  River,  and  the  St.  Regis  proper,  about  io 
m S.  of  the  junction  of  the  E.  branch,  or  Meacham  Lake 
outlet,  with  the  principal  stream.  One  m from  the  head  of 

♦Where  are  the  men  who  so  fiercely  condemn  Mr.  Murray’s  account  of 
the  consumptive  young  man,  “whom  the  Wilderness  received  almost  a 
corpse,  but  which  returned  him  to  his  home  and  the  world  as  happy  and 
healthy  a man  as  ever  bivouacked  under  its  pines.” 

/ 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


64 

this  Level,  near  a little  cove  or  spur  of  the  river,  where 
several  bright,  bubbling  springs  roll  out  from  beneath  the 
bank,  is  delightfully  situated  a wild-woods  retreat,  bearing 
the  romantic  name  of  Spring  Cove  Cottage.  It  stands  in 
an  extensive  grove,  of  spruce,  cedar,  balsam,  hemlock  and 
thmarack  trees,  all  so  noted  for  their  healing  properties. 

“ The  restoration  to  perfect  health  of  an  invalid  wife,  after 
suffering  from  pulmonary  difficulty  for  a space  of  15  or  16 
years,  by  a season  or  two  of  wilderness  life,  impelled  the 
proprietor  to  locate  here  a forest  home.  Recently  he  has 
been  persuaded  to  open  his  house  to  those  coming  hither, 
there  being  no  place  of  entertainment  near.  With  the 
contemplated  additions,  comfortable  quarters  will  be  pro- 
vided for  30  or  40  guests.  No  pretensions  to  style  or  show 
are  made,  but  the  especial  aim  seems  to  be  to  furnish 
clean  beds  and  wholesome  fare,  which  includes,  throughout 
the  season,  fish  and  wild  game  daily,  and  there  is  a dispo- 
sition manifested  to  make  visitors  feel  that  they  are  among 
friends  during  their  stay  at  the  Cottage.  No  malt  or 
spirituous  liquors  are  sold  on  the  premises.* 

••Boats  and  boatmen  are  always  ready  for  the  accommoda- 
tion of  parties.  Mrs.  Smith  accompanies  ladies  on  boat- 
ing excursions  when  desired. 

“ The  morning  of  our  arrival  at  the  cottage,  it  presented 
every  appearance  of  a ‘ Hunter’s  Abode.”  Near  at  hand 
were  hanging  3 saddles  of  venison,  1 catamount,  2 bear 
skins,  6 rabbits,  a lot  of  partridges,  and  also  a string  of 


*And  here  let  us  correct  the  opinion  held  by  many,  that  the  use  of  ardent 
spirits  is  indispensable  when  camping  out.  No  impression  could  be  more 
erroneous.  The  pure,  bracing  atmosphere  of  this  mountain  region,  affords 
all  the  stimulus  that  any  nature  requires ; and  health  will  be  more  readily 
gained,  or  more  firmly  established  by  the  utter  rejection  of  artificial 
stimulants. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  6^ 

trout.  What  picture  could  be  more  glorious  to  a hunter’s 
eye  ? • 

“ For  excellent  fishing  this  river  is  unsurpassed,  as  its 
bed  is  filled  with  deep  spring-holes,  and  the  angler  has 
30  m or  more  of  the  stream  in  which  to  cast  a line — - 
rapids  and  Stillwater  alternating.” 

The  “ Cove,”  J m in  length,  affords  safe  and  ample 
exercise  for  those  who  choose  to  leisurely  “ paddle  their 
own  canoes,”  while  others  more  ambitious  and  desirous 
of  prospecting  or  angling,  may,  with  or  without  guides, 
pass  into  the  river  and  down  the  Level  8 m,  passing  many 
springs  and  brooks  on  the  way,  in  which  the  speckled 
trout  abound,  or  ascend  the  stream  to  the  rapids  1 m and 
see  what  awaits  them  there.  If  not  fully  satisfied  with  the 
result  of  their  operations  at  this  spot,  they  may  pass 
around  these  rapids,  over  a good  path  f m,  and  take 
another  boat  awaiting  them  there,  and  traverse  a second 
level  of  4 m to  the  “Three  Mile  Rapids,”  where  no 
fisher  has  ever  yet  failed  to  experience  the  satisfaction  re- 
sulting from  perfect  success.  These  river  routes  should 
ordinarily  be  selected  by  those  in  search  of  rest  or  recrea- 
tion, as  but  little  exertion  is  required  in  following  them. 

There  are  a number  of  picturesque  ponds,  easily  access- 
ible from  the  Cottage,  where  excellent  fishing  is  also  found. 

To  Duck  Pond  (f  x J)  the  distance  is  1 m S.  W ; 
Spring  Pond  (small)  lies  |m  S;  it  is  also  reached  by  boat 
from  the  river — distance  by  water  1^  m,  a favorite  re- 
sort for  invalids.  East  Branch  Pond  (ixf)  is  4 m N. 
W.,  a wagon  road  passing  within  i£  m of  it.  It  is  over- 
shadowed by  Catamount  Mountain.  McCavenaugh  Pond 
O2  * 4)  is  4 m away.  To  Goose  Pond  (small  and  marshy) 
it  is  3 m by  road. 


4 


66 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


The  woods  in  their  neighborhood  are  very  pleasant,  and 
abound  in  small  game.  Deer  also  are  quite  plentiful 

We  venture  to  insert  one  or  two  anecdotes  illustrative 
of  camp  life  on  the  St.  Regis,  in  the  language  of  the  nar- 
rator. 

FISHY,  BUT  TRUE. 

“ Professor  H.,  of  Mass.,  with  A.  M.  Sabin  for  a guide, 
started  from  Poplar  Point,  a noted  camping  ground 
near  Spring  Cove,  on  the  St.  Regis  River  ; went  to  the 
head  of  the  Level,  passed  around  the  rapids,  took  a boat 
and  went  to  the  head  of  the  4 Mile  Level,  supplied  with 
the  needful  tackling  to  take  the  finny  tribe  with  that  excit- 
ing device — the  fly.  The  Professor  with  his  224  lbs.  of 
mortality,  did  not  aspire  to  wet  feet  or  a tramp  ; so  the 
boat  was  anchored  on  the  rifts,  and  out  went  his  fly  for  a 
victim.  The  instant  it  touched  the  water  it  was  taken  by 
a trout ; the  Professor  pulled — but  no  trout ; again  he  made 
the  effort — but  to  no  purpose.  Friend  H.  had  ‘fish  on 
the  brain  ; ’ his  tackling  was  all  right,  but  no  lazy  pull  takes 
a trout  with  a fly.  In  this  dilemma  he  called  his  guide,  who 
was  near  by,  bagging  trout  at  every  pull — ‘I  say,  tell  me 
how  to  catch  them  ; they  snap  and  are  off  like  lightning. 
The  guide,  with  a knowing  wink,  says,  ‘ twitch  when  they 
bite./  The  short  lesson  was  soon  learned,  and  an  hour’s 
time  supplied  them  with  300  nice  trout.  They  then  land- 
ed, made  a bough  cabin,  did  justice  to  a bountiful  repast  of 
trout,  and  camped  by  a rousing  fire  for  the  night.  In  a 
few  moments  the  Professor  made  the  solitude  sonorous,  if 
not  melodious.  At  early  dawn,  they  added  to  their  stock, 
and  at  sunset  reached  camp  with  500  trout  ; pretty  good 
for  a 2 days’  trip.” 


DESCRIPTIVE  GtflDfi. 


67 


SHOOT  FIRST,  SPEAK  AFTERWARDS. 


“An  experienced  hunter  obtained  a guide  with  boat  and 
jack-light,  and  sallied  out  for  a night’s  hunt  for  deer.  At 
a point  below  Spring  Cove,  called  Key  Rocks,  a deer  was 
quietly  feeding  on  the  river  bank  in  fancied  safety,  being 
protected  by  the  laws  of  the  Empire  Slate  ; as  the  boat 
turned  a short  bend  in  tha^river,  the  jack-light  revealed  to 
the  guide  his  whereabouts,  and  the  deer’s  eyes  glistened 
like  balls  of  fire.  Rapidly  and  silently  the  boat  neared  the 
game,  but  like  a statue  sat  our  friend  with  his  double-bar- 
rel gun  in  hand.  He  had  made  no  discovery  ; he  did  not 
see  any  game,  not  he.  The  guide  picked  up  his  rifle,  and 
as  the  deer  bounded  off,  he  pulled  ; the  report  brought  the 
youthful  hunter  to  his  senses;  he  heard  a noise,  but  did 
not  see  anything.  The  guide  ran  the  boat  ashore,  and  the 
plucky  little  hunter  stepped  into  the  tall  grass  on  the 
bank.  There  stood  a deer  not  20  ft.  from  him,  gazing  at 
the  light ; ‘ golly,  here’s  another,  ’ shouted  the  youth,  and 
away  went  the  animal,  snorting  defiance  at  his  would-be 
murderers.  Lesson — When  you  see  a deer,  shoot  first — 
say  ‘golly’  next.” 

To  sum  up  all,  the  location  may  be  regarded  as  peculiarly 
adapted  to  the  wants  of  invalids  in  pursuit  of  health,  or  the 
weary  seeking  rest,  and  lovers  of  the  chase  or  of  piscatorial 
sports,  will  be  gratified  to  the  utmost  by  their  experiences 
here. 

The  following  is  the  route  from  Spring  Cove  Cottage  to 
Paul  Smith’s,  at  St.  Regis  Lake  : 


MILES. 


St.  Regis  River, 
Portage,  - - 

River,  - - - 


4 


1 


! 


68 


Descriptive  guide. 


Portage  (boats  sometimes  towed  2 m heie),  - 
River,  (“  Sixteen  Mile  Level,”)  - - - - 

Portage,  “ “ “ - - - - - 

River,  “ “ “ - - - - - 

Portage,  “ “ “ - - - - - 

River*  to  outlet  of  F'olingsby’s,  Jr.,  Pond,  - 
River  to  Keese’s  Mills,  ------- 

Portage,  - - - --  --  --  -- 

River,  - --  --  --  --  --  -- 


Total,  -------------  33I 

The  usual  mode  is  to  proceed  by  wagon,  over  a good 
woods  road,  to  the  foot  of  the  16  m Level  (7  m);  thus 
avoiding  about  9 m of  boating,  including  the  first  two 
portages.  The  route  skirts  along  the  base  of  Blue  Mount- 
ain, 4 m S.  of  the  Cottage,  near  which  a Mr.  Merrill  for- 
merly kept  a sporting  house — recently  destroyed  by  fire. 
We  learn  it  is  to  be  rebuilt. 

The  St.  Regis  River  with  its  three  branches  has  its 
source  in  a cluster  of  lakes  and  ponds  lying  in  Franklin 
County,  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  headwaters  of  the 
Saranac  system.  It  flows  in  a course  nearly  parallel  with 
that  of  the  Oswegatchie,  Grass  and  Raquette  Rivers.  Of 
all  these  Wilderness  streams,  this  is  the  very  least  known — 
the  most  rarely  followed.  Through  a densely -wooded 
region  of  wildness  and  solitude,  which  the  foot  of  man 
has  seldom  pressed,  it  pursues  its  serpentine  course  until 
emerging  at  last  from  the  forest’s  solemn  shades,  it  enters 
the  smiling  meadows  of  the  “Northern  Tier,”  and  passes 

*A  carry  leads  from  the  head  of  this  level,  2 m S.,  to  Bay  Pond.  It  is 
7 1-2  m by  road  from  this  carry  to  Paul  Smith’s. 


MILES. 

- - 3 

- - IO 

- - I 

- - 4 


- - - 2 
- - 5 


3 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  69 

Onward  toward  its  final  resting  place,  through  the  noble 
St.  Lawrence. 

Seventeenth — Malone,  the  county  seat  of  Franklin  Co., 
and  the  most  important  station  on  the  Northern  R.  R,.  is 
picturesquely  situated  on  E.  Salmon  River,  61  m from 
Ogdensburg  and  57  from  Rouse’s  Point.  It  is  a very 
flourishing  village  and  its  principal  streets  are  broad  and 
pleasant,  being  ornamented  by  many  handsome  public  and 
private  structures.  The  scenery  surrounding  the  place 
is  very  pleasing. 

In  presenting  a description  of  this  section  we  can  do 
no  better  than  to  extract  from  several  letters  written  to 
us  by  Christie  R.  Fay,  Esq.,  of  Malone,  N.  Y.,  not  de- 
signed, of  course,  for  publication,  but  which  we  are#per- 
mitted  to  quote.  Mr.  P'ay,  who,  we  take  occasion  to  say, 
is  a cultivated  and  thorough  artist,  as  well  as  a gentleman 
of  many  noble  characteristics  and  not  a few  scholarly 
attainments,  has  taken  several  extended  tours  through  the 
“ Northern  Wilderness,”  (a  record  of  one  of  which  ap- 
peared in  a number  of  Harper’s  Weekly ,)  and  is  very 
familiar  with  nearly  every  point  of  interest  within  the 
limits  of  this  wonderful  region,  as  the  many  crayon  and 
photographic  views  he  has  produced,  emphatically  indicate, 
and  from  which  the  majority  of  the  illustrations  in  this 
book  were  engraved.  We  advise  all  interested  in  this 
subject  to  send  for  his  catalogue  of  stereoscopic  views,  all 
executed  in  the  highest  style  of  the  art,  which  will  be 
furnished  on  application. 

“ Malone,”  Mr.  P'ay  writes,  “is  destined,  in  my  opinion, 
at  a time  not  far  distant,  to  become  one  of  the  most  im- 
portant gateways  to  this  ‘ Sportsman’s  Paradise.’  A few 
hours’  ride  from  this  place  will  carry  the  traveler  to  as 


;o 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


fine  a section  for  sport  as  exists  anywhere  within  the 
boundaries  of  the  Adirondacks.  In  this  direction  the 
woods  and  waters  have  not  been  so  thoroughly  cleared  of 
fish  and  game  as  in  the  wilderness  farther  S.  Many 
parties  went  through  to  Paul  Smith’s  from  this  point,  the 
past  season,  and  they  all  expressed  themselves  highly 
pleased  with  the  route.  The  road  is  in  excellent  condition 
for  travel  now,  as  a large  amount  of  money  and  work  have 
been  expended  upon  it  within  the  last  year.  It  will  also 
be  a regular  stage  route  hereafter,  as  Chisholm&Tobey  of 
our  town  have  recently  made  arrangements  to  put  on  a full 
complement  of  Concord  coaches  and  run  a daily  line. 
The  distance  from  Malone  to  Meacham  Lake  is  25  m,and 

12  m farther  S.  you  reach  the  St.  Regis  waters  and  the 

% 

‘ St.  James’  of  the  Wilderness — Paul  Smith’s.  And  what  a 
delightful  route  it  is — through  a most  picturesque  region — 
just  uneven  enough  for  variety,  the  road  thickly  shaded 
on  either  side  by  magnificent  forest  trees.  At  intervals 
you  pass  beautiful  woodland  lakes  and  ponds,  into  the 
clear  waters  of  which  you  are  tempted  to  drop  a hook  as 
you  observe  the  mirrored  surface  broken  into  a thousand 
ripples,  in  a hundred  places,  by  the  ‘ speckled  beauties  ’ 
darting  after  flies. 

“ Meacham  Lake,  one  of  the  most  important  of  the 
Chauteaugay  waters,  is  about  3 m in  length  and  varying 
from  i|  to  2 m in  width.  It  is  bounded  on  nearly  all  sides 
by  charming  mountain  ranges,  and  its  three  handsome 
sand  beaches,  which  together  form  \ of  its  circumference 
but  increase  its  manifold  attractions.  In  the  words  of  my 
friend  Haviland,  we  know  of  no  finer  landscape  and  finer 
scenery,  than  that  presented  by  Meacham  Lake  and  its 
surroundings  as  viewed  from  Carpenter  Hill.  When  we 
first  beheld  this  sheet,  rippling  softly  in  the  sunlight,  it  lay 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


71 


before  us,  one  burnished  sheet  of  liquid  gold’.  A cloud- 
less blue  sky  hung  over  mountain  and  forest,  the  clear 
atmosphere  bringing  into  bold  relief  all  the  mountain 
glimpse  for  which  this  lovely  lake  is  so  justly  celebrated. 

“ Debar  Mountain,  a savage  looking  peak,  standing  senti- 
nal  on  the  left,  leads  the  scene  ; St.  Regis  Mountain,  due 
S.,  shows  its  blue  summit  in  the  air,  while  numberless  other 
less-noted  pinnacles,  with  ‘wildering  forest  feathered  o’er 
from  base  to  crown,’  continually  divert  and  charm  the 
vision.  Its  shores  are  clothed  in  primeval  splendor,  and  no 
signs  of  civilization  or  cultivation  are  manifest  in  any 
direction,  except  at  its  northern  'extremity,  where  the 
Meacham  Lake  House  solicits  the  traveler’s  attention.  No 
other  habitation  stands  within  5 m of  its  waters. 

“ The  well  known  sporting  hostelry  ( Alon.  R.  Fuller, 
proprietor,  Pi  O.  Malone,  N.  Y.)  has  a capacity  for  50 
guests,  and  trout  and  venison  constantly  abound  on  its  ta- 
bles as  well  as  in  the  waters  and  forests  in  the  vicinity.  It 
is  a delightful  summer  resort  and  its  gentlemanly  host  is 
ever  ready  to  cater  to  the  various  tastes  of  his  many  vis- 
itors ; good  boats,  reliable  guides  and  everything  needed 
for  a sporting  life,  furnished  on  short  notice.  The  following 
resorts  are  conveniently  reached  by  boats  or  good  portages  : 
Clear  Pond,  if  m N.  of  F u 1 1 e r s,  has  no  apparent  inlet 
or  outlet ; its  water  is  as  clear  as  crystal  and  is  alive  with 
whitefish.  Buck  Pond,  a little  farther  N.,  is  made  up  of 
spring-holes  and  its  outlet  forms  Deer  River.  N.  E.  of 
Meacham  House,  about  3 m,  is  Winnebago  Pond. 

“ The  outlet  and  inlet  of  Meacham  Lake  are  both  at  its 
southern  extremity  and  but  a short  distance  apart.  Down 
the  former,  which  is  the  E.  branch  of  the  St.  Regis  River, 
at  the  old  bridge,  and  not  far  from  the  lake,  where  the  road 
from  Malone  (via  Fuller’s)  to  Paul  Smith’s  crosses 

i • 


72 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


the  stream,  you  will  find  most  excellent  fishing  in  the 
spring  and  fall.  Below  this  point  the  stream  is  very  rapid  as 
far  as  the  ‘Lower  Landing’  (about  i^  m),  but  thence  down 
you  have  6 or  7 m of  ‘still- water  fishing,’  and  this  is  the 
place  we  generally  visit  for  a good  day’s  sport  with  the  fly. 
The  stream  unites  with  the  St.  Regis  proper  some  distance 
below,  near  the  ‘9  Mile  Level.’ 

“ About  5 m N.  of  Meacham  Lake,  the  road  crosses 
Deer  River,  a tributary  of  the  St.  Regis,  which  widens  as 
it  flows.  Here  also  is  fine  fishing  and  hunting,  ard  here 
lives  -Al’  Burr,  the  noted  trapper  and  guide.  This  man 
has  a history.  Years  ago  he  moved  in  good  society  in  our 
town,  but  on  account  of  some  love  affair,  he  retired  to  the 
Wilderness  where  he  has  remained  a recluse  ever  since. 
Two  m N.  of  Burr’s  place,  also  on  the  main  road,  is  the 
home  of  ‘Chris’  Crandall,  another  famous  guide. 

“ I will  again  quote  Haviland  : ‘ Crandall  is  certainly  a 
noteworthy  man,  of  gigantic  frame,  long  waving  hair  and 
beard — a hair  lip  adding  considerably  to  his  beauty-— and 
looking  all  together  the  beau  ideal  of  the  forest  ranger. 
Years  ago,  while  out  still  hunting  with  a friend  miles  away 
from  any  habitation  and  in  the  dead  of  winter,  he  was 
accidentally  shot  in  the  hip  with  a rifle  ball,  and  lay  in  the 
desolate  woods  all  the  long  night,  upon  a few  branches 
hastily  piled  together.  His  gun  was  taken  from  him  b) 
his  companion  for  fear  the  poor  fellow  in  his  agony  might 
destroy  himself.  Here  he  lay,  without  a fire,  all  that  fear- 
ful night,  tortured,  freezing,  and  longing  for  death — hear- 
ing naught  but  the  sighing  of  the  wind  through  the  snow- 
laden branches,  or  perchance,  the  cry  of  Some  wild  beast 
in  search  of  its  prey.  Assistance  came  the  next  day,  and 
he  was  carried  out  7 long  miles  to  the  settlement,  and 
there  his  leg  was  amputated,  and  his  life  saved.  It  seems 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


73 


incredible  that  a one-legged  man  should  be  able  to  act  as 
an  efficient  hunter  and  guide — indeed  be  noted  for  his 
useful  qualifications.  Yet  nevertheless,  such  is  the  case 
with  Crandall,  and  I know  of  no  better  guide  in  the 
Chateaugay  Woods.’ 

“ The  inlet  of  Meacham  Lake  is  the  outlet  of  Osgood 
Pond.  The  stream  flows  in  a circuitous  course,  through  a 
hilly  section  of  the  country.  You  can  pass  with  a boat,  up 
the  inlet  from  the  lake  to  a point  within  a few  r of  the 
house  of  A.  C.  McCollum,  another  most  notable  guide. 

“ The  boat  landing  here  is  familiarly  known  as  ‘ Hog’s 
Back’ — not  a very  euphonious  name,  but  a most  romantic 
spot.  This  portion  of  the  stream  (4  m)  passes  through  a 
very  wild  and  flat  section,  with  little  upland  to  vary  the 
scene  ; marshy  patches  and  sloughs  occasionally  appear- 
ing on  either  side.  These  openings  and  swampy  fields  are 
fine  feeding  places  for  the  deer,  and  any  day  in  the  proper 
season,  you  will  find  an  opportunity  to  ‘draw  a bead’  upon 
one  or  more  of  them,  by  paddling  up  the  inlet. 

“ Near  McCollum’s  place  there  is  a scattering  settlement 
of  12  or  15  families,  which  is  generally  called  ‘Burnt 
Ground’.  These  people  make  pretentions  to  farming,  but 
obtain  most  of  their  livelihood  from  trapping  and  hunting. 
Through  this  place,  which  is  6 or  7 m S.  of  Meacham 
House,  the  road  from  Malone  to  Paul  Smith’s  passes,  and 
with  this  exception,  the  route  after  reaching  Deer  R.  lies 
- through  an  unbroken  wilderness.  There  are  many  pretty 
lakes  and  ponds  in  the  vicinity  of  McCollum’s,  situated  in 
the  midst  of  delightful  scenery,  and  ^11  accessible  by  easy 
portages. 

“ But  few  of  the  Adirondack  resorts  afford  better  sport  to 
the  hunter  and  fisherman  than  these  waters.  A trail 
extends  N.  W.  6 m to  Spring  Cove  Cottage,  on  the  St. 


74 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Regis  R.  A few  years  ago  Mr.  J.  H.  Titus,  who  built  the 
Meacham  House,  of  which  he  was  proprietor  several  years, 
cleared  out  this  inlet  (which,  to  use  his  language,  ‘was  full 
of  everything  imaginable,  from  old  forest  pines,  4 or  5 ft. 
in  diameter,  down  to  poor  dead  rats’,)  by  removing  all  the 
old  logs  and  fallen  trees  that  obstructed  navigation,  and 
by  digging  new  channels  in  several  places,  with  a view  to 
opening  water  communication  with  St.  Regis  Lake.  He 
succeded  in  a measure,  and  for  a considerable  period  made 
a practice  of  running  his  boats  almost  to  the  landing  of 
the  St.  Regis  Hotel.  But  the  water  route  usually  taken 
from  F u 1 1 e r ’ s to  Paul  Smith’s,  is  as  follows 

MILES. 


Meacham  Lake,  ------------  3 

Inlet  to  McCollum’s,  - --  --  --  --  - 4 

Portage,  r,  W.,  - --  --  --  --  --  - J 

Chain  Lake,  - --  --  --  --  --  --  ij 

Portage,  S.  W.,  r - i4 

Folingsby,  Jr.,  Pond  (2  x f),  --------  i| 

Middle  St.  Regis  River  (or  road  3m),  - - - - - 5 

Portage  around  dam  at  Keese’s  Mill,  -----  J 

St.  Regis  R,  - - - - -3 


Total,  - --  --  --  --  --  --  19! 


“ Tourists  generally  prefer  the  land  route,  as  it  is  some  8 
m shorter  and  less  tedious  ; but  those  intent  upon  sport 
and  adventure,  follow  the  water  course,  as  they  always 
find  plenty  of  fish  anti  game  on  the  way.  We  have  a tri- 
weekly mail  and  stage  line  between  Malone  and  Ausable 
Forks.  The  route  is  identical  w ith  that  leading  to 
Meacham  Lake,  as  far  as  Duane,  where  it  strikes  the  old 


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CHAZY  LAKE  AND  LION  MOUNTAIN. 


MEACHAM  POND. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


75 


‘ Military  Turnpike  ’ and  bears  thence  S.  easterly,  pass- 
ing ‘Hunters  Home/  a sporting  house  kept  by  Paul  Smith 
before  he  removed  to  the  St.  Regis  waters.  His  brother, 
Mr.  Lewis  Smith,  (P.  O.  Merrillville,)  now  occupies  this 
’ pleasant  resort,  and  is  presumed  to  render  comfortable  all 
who  favor  him  with  a call.  Here  you  are  again  in  the  very 
center  of  another  famous  sporting  section.  In  the  vicinity 
are  Loon  and  Rainbow  Lakes,  Elbow,  Round,  Mud,  Buck 
and  Oregon  Ponds. 

“ Distance  from  Malone  to  Hunter’s  Home,  31  m ; to 
Ausable  Forks,  52  m;  to  Paul  Smith’s,  via  Hunter’s  Home, 
47  m ; to  Hough’s,  at  head  of  U.  Saranac  Lake,  via 
Meacham  and  St.  Regis  Lakes,  48  m ; to  Martin’s,  at  foot 
of  L,  Saranac  Lake,  same  route,  55  m ; to  Martin’s,  via 
Hunter’s  Home  and  Vermontville,  48  m. 

There  are  many  other  beautiful  lakes  and  ponds,  buried 
in  the  deep  recesses  of  the  woods,  conveniently  visited  from 
Malone  over  good  roads,  a few  of  which  I will  proceed  to 
name. 

“ Branch  Pond,  an  affluent  of  Salmon  River,  a fine  sheet 
of  water  (2  x 1),  lies  8 m S.  W.  ; Maple  Hill,  Haubury, 
and  Branch  Pond  Mountains,  and  the  thickly  wooded  for- 
est surrounding,  render  the  scenery  near  this  pond  wild  and 
striking.  There  is  but  one  habitation  here,  the  Branch 
Pond  House,  Andrew  D.  Rogers,  Proprietor,  (P.  O.  Malone,) 
where  tourists  will  be  treated  with  every  attention  their 
wants  require.  Salmon  River,  3 m E.,  Deer  River,  5 m 
W.,  Eagle  Pond,  2\  m E.,  Horsehoe  Pond,  3 m S., 
Green  or  Gourd  and  Spring  Ponds,  2-J  m S.  W.,  (Spring 
being  \ m W.  of  Green),  Twin  Pond,  3^  m S.  W.  and 
several  other  pretty  lakelets  are  reached  by  good  roads  or 
paths  from  Branch  Pond.  Round  Pond  (called  Indian  Lake 
by  Hammond),  is  12  m S.  E.  of  Malone,  and  is  accessible 


76 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


by  a road  diverging  from  the  main  road  at  Titusville. 
This  sheet  of  water  (3  x 2),  as  its  name  indicates,  is  nearly 
circular,  and  is  justly  celebrated  for  its  beauty.  Not  the 
least  cultivation  exists  on  its  borders,  and  no  less  wild  are 
the  surroundings  than  when  the  first  hardy  trapper  pene-* 
trated  to  its  shores.  Like  most  of  these  Wilderness 
waters,  it  is  the  home  of  the  different  varieties  of  trout ; 
they  especially  abound  near  the  mouth  of  a cold  stream 
that  enters  a little  bay  at  its  southern  extremity. 

“ Another  noted  guide,  familiarly  called  ‘ Old  Salaman- 
der,’ has  located  his  lonely  forest  home  not  far  from  its 
shores. 

“ The  outlet  of  Round  Pond  flows  into  Salmon  R.  ; 1 m 
S.  W.,  and  at  the  junction  of  the  two  streams,  the  State 
has  constructed  a substantial  dam,  which  has  a tendency 
to  force  the  water  of  the  river  back  into  the  pond,  thus 
making  it  a grand  reservoir.  The  Salmon  R.  is  to  this 
county  what  the  Raquetteis  to  St.  Lawrence  County — the 
lumberman’s  highway.  Hence  in  the  spring  time,  when 
the  river  is  too  low  for  running  logs,  the  gates  of  this 
dam  are  hoisted,  and  this  great  body  of  water,  which  has 
been  held  back  from  its  natural  course,  now  swells  the 
stream,  and  the  logs  are  speedily  forced  by  the  increasing 
flood  down  to  Malone,  where  the  extensive  mills  belong- 
ing to  Messrs.  Titus  & Parmalee  receive  them. 

“This  dam,  being  only  13  m from  Malone,  is  a favorite 
resort  for  our  towns-people,  and  often  have  I visited  it  and 
returned  on  the  same  day  with  a generous  string  of 
speckled  game.  In  fact,  above  the  dam,  below  the  dam, 
and  anywhere  in  the  crystalline  waters  of  Salmon  R., 
you  can  catch  the  finest  kind  of  trout.  The  “ State  Dam 
House,”  R.  J.  Cuningham,  proprietor,  (P.  O.  Malone,)  is 
pleasantly  located  near  the  dam  and  has  comfortable 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


77 


accommodations  for  1 5 or  20  guests.  The  following  forest- 
embosomed  waters,  sources  of  the  Salmon  R.,  are  accessi- 
ble from  this  spot  : — Round  Pond,  as  above  noted,  1 m 
N.  E.,  with  which  there  is  communication  both  by  road 
and  stream  (its  outlet)  ; the  others  are  reached  by  paths 
through  the  woods  or  by  following  up  the  course  of  the 
river  and  making  short  portages.  Charley  Pond,  2 m S., 
is  a pretty  lakelet,  noted  for  its  beautiful  surroundings  and 
its  fine  quality  of  trout.  The  fish  in  this  pond  are  quite 
large  and  differ  much  in  appearance  from  the  trout  taken 
from  other  waters  ; they  are  known  as  the  ‘ Silver  Skins,’ 
having  a bright  silvery  surface.  When  cooked,  the  meat 
is  red  and  very  firm.  The  distance  from  ‘ State  Dam  ’ by 
water  to  Charley  Por.d,  including  a carry  of  100  r,  is  about 
4 m.  Deer  Fly  Pond  is  2\  m S.  E.  of  State  Dam  ; Wolf 
Pond  is  6 m S.;  Plumadore  Pond,  a most  charming  body 
of  water,  2 m wide  by  2 1,  making  it  nearly  circular,  is 
also  reached  by  diverging  a short  distance  from  the  Ausa- 
ble  Forks  route,  at  the  ‘ Ross  Place,’ — 20  m from  Malone — 
situated  on  the  Hatch  stream,  which  is  generally  alive 
with  trout. 

“ Elbow  Pond  lies  9 m S.  E.  As  a general  rule  there  is 
good  fishing  in  these  waters  in  every  season,  and  as  the 
country  surrounding  is  very  wild,  deer  may  be  seen  in 
this  vicinity  on  any  day  throughout  the  year.  Five  m 
above  the  State  Dam  House  (S.  E.),  Salmon  R.  receives 
the  waters  of  Ragged  Lake,  Wolf  Pond,  etc.,  and  here  is 
another  attractive  resort.  Ragged  or  Salmon  Lake  is 
reached  by  a good  woods  path  extending  N.  E.  from  the 
E.  shore  of  Round  Pond, — distance  3 m.  The  length  of 
this  lake  is  about  6^  m,  (9  m if  Mud  lake  is  included, 
which  really  forms  its  northern  part,)  with  a width  varying 
from  i to  ^ m.  In  the  language  of  Hammond,  fit  is  as 


78 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


lovely  a sheet  of  water,  as  ever  enthusiast  described,  or 
poet  portrayed  in  song.’ 

“ In  the  S.  E.,  Mount  Lion  rears  his  lofty  head  to  the 
clouds,  standing  like  a gigantic  sentinel,  overlooking  for- 
est and  lake,  and  watching  in  moveless  silence  the  wilder- 
ness around  him.  This  lake  is  most  appropriately  named. 

Its  outlines  are  peculiarly  irregular,  most  emphatically 
ragged.  In  its  clear  and  deep  waters  numberless  trout 
have  their  homes. 

“ At  the  Ragged  Lake  House,  the  only  habitation  in  the  i 
vicinity,  travelers  will  receive  the  mort  courteous  treat- 
ment from  its  proprietor,  Geo.  Pond,  (P.  O.  Malone,)  either 
in  the  way  of  serving  them  at  his  well  stocked  tables,  with 
slices  of  juicy  venison  and  well  trimmed,  crispy  pieces  of 
golden  trout,  or  of  guiding  them  through  the  labyrinths 
of  the  neighboring  woods.  Good  pathways  lead  from  this 
lake  N.  E.  4 m to  the  Chateaugay  waters,  and  to  Ingraham 
Pond,  2 m N.  W.  And  here  it  may  be  stated  that  the 
Lower  Chateaugay  Lake  is  visited  from  Malone  by  a pleas- 
ant drive  of  1 3 m over  a nice  carriage  road,  and  that 
another  agreeable  resort,  Spring  Cove  Cottage,  is  reached 
by  a good  wagon  road,  as  follows  : — Bangor,  6 m ; Potter- 
ville,  3m;  Dickinson  Center,  11  m ; Lincolnson,  3 m ; 

St.  Regis  River,  9 m.  Another  pleasant  resort  in  our 
vicinity  must  not  be  overlooked,  viz.,  the  ‘ Bend  in  the 
River,’  which  also  lies  on  the  main  route  to  Meacham 
Lake  and  Paul  Smith’s  ; 2 m S.  of  Titusville,  and  10  m 
from  Malone.  The  ‘ Bend,  ’ true  to  its  name,  is  a sharp 
curve  of  the  Salmon  R.,  forming  quite  an  ‘ oxbow,’  and  is 
upon  the  whole  a very  romantic  spot.  Boats  ascend  the 
stream  6 m (within  2 m of  State  Dam),  and  there  is  good 
fishing  and  night  hunting  all  the  way  up. 

“Down  the  stream  a short  distance,  navigation  is  obstruct-  , 


Mscriptive  guide. 


79 

6d  by  rapids  and  falls.  The  ‘ Myrtle  Bower  House’  (ro- 
mantic name  of  a cheery  retreat),  at  the  Bend,  kept  by 
Ralph  Helms,  (P.  O.  Malone,)  furnishes  pleasant  quarters 
for  the  traveler.  The  scenery  around  the  Bend  is  indeed 
picturesque.  A little  W.  of  the  main  road  and. directly  in 
the  rear  of  the  Helms  place,  the  land  rises  to  a considera- 
ble eminence.  From  this  point  looking  S.  E.,  you  have  as 
fine  a landscape  spread  out  before  you  as  ever  artist  could 
wish  to  place  upon  canvas — a bold,  broken  foreground  f 
admitting  fine  view  of  the  river,  which,  like  a silvery 
serpent,  is  seen  winding  on  in  its  course  amid  mountain 
ranges,  till  lost  in  the  dark  green  foliage  of  the  forest.  A 
year  or  two  ago,  a celebrated  New  York  artist  who  fre- 
quents this  section  of  the  Adirondacks  nearly  every  season, 
selected  this  spot,  the  Bend  on  Salmon  R.,  for  an  elaborate 
painting,  which  appeared  on  exhibition  at  the  Academy  of 
Design,  valued  at  several  thousand  dollars.  Lovers  of  the 
beautiful  or  those  in  search  of  the  picturesque  will  be 
delighted  with  the  country  here. 

“ On  the  main  road  leading  S.  to  Meacham  L.  and  Paul 
Smith’s,  within  f of  a m of  the  town,  is  located  ‘ Spring- 
dale  Fish  Farm.’  Here  the  tourist  can  have  an  opportuni- 
ty of  seeing  as  fine  a lot  of  speckled  trout  as  ever  delighted 
the  eye  of  the  sportsman.  The  place  is  always  open  to 
visitors  free  of  charge. 

“ Till  quite  recently  ‘Springdale’  was  the  property  of  C. 
R,  Fay,  but  is  now  owed  by  Mr.  J.  L.  Hogle,  the  gentle- 
manly proprietor  of  the  Hogle  House,  who  will  be  pleased 
at  all  times  to  show  visitors  around,  and  explain  to  them 
the  whole  modus  operandi  of  Pisciculture.  In  the  differ- 
ent ponds  may  be  seen  thousands  of  these  speckled  beauties, 
varying  in  size  from  \ to  2\  lbs.,  besides  many  ‘smaller  fry.’ 
The  larger  fish  mostly  have  been  brought  from  the  lakes 


8o 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


and  ponds  in  the  Adirondack  Wilderness.  The  * baby 
trout,  ’ or  smaller  fish,  have  all  been  raised  on  the  place, 
where  a hatching  house  has  been  built  for  the  purpose  of 
propagating,  and  which  has  the  capacity  for  hatching 
200,000  or  more. 

“ The  ponds  are  supplied  by  beautiful  and  never-failing 
springs,  and  it  is  one  of  the  most  desirable  locations  for  the 
business  in  the  entire  country. 

“ It  may  be  for  the  interest  of  the  tourist  to  know  that 
Malone  is  within  convenient  distance  of  other  delightful 
resorts  for  the  sporting  world.  The  St.  Regis  Indian  Res- 
ervation— covering  an  area  of  about  22  square  m — through 
which  the  extremely  clear  waters  of  the  St.  Regis  R.  flow, 
is  distant  only  24  m.  This  stream  passes  through  the 
most  charming  scenery  imaginable.  At  the  mouth  of  the 
stream,  or  where  it  weds  the  waters  of  the  beautiful  St. 
Lawrence,  is  located  the  ancient  Indian  village  of  St  Regis. 
Here  the  old  church  with  its  historic  bell  still  stands,  an 
object  of  interest.  Within  2 m of  St.  Regis  is  the  little 
village  of  Hogansburg,  where  Eleazur  Williams,  the  ‘Lost 
Prince,’  supposed  heir  to  the  throne  of  France,  spent  the 
last  years  of  his  eventful  and  mysterious  life,  doing  ‘mission 
work  ’ among  the  St.  Regis  tribe.  Whether  he  came  of 
royal  blood,  or  was  the  son  of  the  noble  red  man,  we  know 
not.  His  body  lies  buried  in  the  little  church  yard  at 
Hogansburg;  beneath  the  shade  of  beautiful  evergreen 
trees. 

“ After  the  sportsman  has  feasted  his  eyes  upon. the  beau- 
ties of  the  landscape,  has  gladdened  his  heart  with  a 
satisfactory  quantity  of  the  ‘ finny  tribe,  ’ he  can  pay  his 
particular  attention  to  acres  of  wild  ducks  that  are  fre- 
quently seen  at  one  time  within  the  limits  of  the  Res- 
ervation. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


8 1 


11  It  is  told  that  to  an  island,  an  Indian  has  been  banished 
for  life  by  his  tribe,  for  committing  some  misdemeanor. 
This  island  is  situated  in  the  St.  Lawrence,  near  the  mouth 
of  the  Salmon  R.,  and  is  known  as  ‘Kar-is-tau-tee  s Island, 
being  named  after  the  exile. 

“ I knew  this  old  Indian  well.  His  name  has  been  angli- 
cized into  ‘ Cris-tu-tu.’  T.  he  island — a delightful  one — is 
bounded  on  the  S.  side  by  an  extensive  marsh  or  rush  bed 
which  reaches  nearly  to  the  main  shore.  In  these  marshes 
the  ducks  build  their  nests  and  hatch  their  young;  con- 
sequently in  the  fall  of  the  year  one  can  have  rare  sport 
about  ‘ Cristutu  s Island/  Canadian  sportsmen  from 
Montreal  frequent  this  place  every  Autumn  and  spend 
weeks  hunting  ducks.  ‘ Indian  Summer’  is  the  best  period 
for  securing  them. 

“ Again,  it  is  but  20  m from  Malone  to  the  St.  Lawrence. 
To  Fort  Covington,  which  is  situated  on  the  Salmon  R., 
the  distance  is  15  m,  and  from  thence  to  the  mouth  of  the 
river  5 m.  Tourists  can  engage  small  boats  at  Fort  Cov- 
ington, and  guides,  who  will  accompany  them  to  the  river 
of  the  ‘ Thousand  Isles.’  There  is  fine  fishing  among  the 
islands  of  the  St.  Lawrence,  especially  near  the  mouth  of 
the  Salmon  R.;  and  as  far  up  the  river  as  Fort  Covington  ; 
better  trolling  waters  in  the  spring  time  cannot  be  found 
anywhere.  Pike,  pickerel  and  black  bass,  in  large  num- 
bers abound  here,  and  muskallonge  are  frequently  caught 
weighing  from  10  to  30  pounds.  Thus  it  will  be  seen  that 
those  who  visit  Malone  on  a sporting  excursion,  can  try 
their  luck  in  the  mountain  stream  or  in  the  broad  waters 
of  the  beautiful  St.  Lawrence,  and  those  not  thus  inclined 
may  make  the  highly  exciting  tour  down  the  rapids 
(‘poetry  of  the  river’)  and  pass  on  to  Montreal  and  Que- 
bec, as  steamers  that  ply  between  those  cities  and  Corn- 
wall, run-up  the  Salmon  regularly  to  Fort  Covington. 


8:: 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


“ Parties  preparing  for  a journey  to  the  Wilderness  via. 
Malone,  can  procure  a full  variety  of  Fishing  Tackle  at 
the  Drug  Store  of  Noel  J.  Hunt  ; Guns  and  Ammuni- 
tion of  the  practical  gun-maker,  M.  Moses  ; and  Horses 
and  Carriages  of  Chisholm  & Tobey,  who  furnish  the 
best  of  conveyances  at  reasonable  rates.  This  firm 
make  a specialty  of  conveying  tourists  into  the  Adiron- 
dacks.  (See  Addenda.) 

“ The  principal  hotel  in  Malone  is  the  noted  Ferguson 
youse,  which  is  admirably  located  within  a few  feet  of 
the  handsome  depot  recently  erected  here.  In  its  stately 
proportions  it  is  a striking  ornament  to  this  thriving  vil- 
lage— the  imposing  central-piece  of  radiating  business 
marts.  Few  houses  in  the  country  afford  pleasanter 
quarters,  better  supplied  tables,  or  superior  management. 
Its  elegantly  furnished  rooms  and  most  admirable  ap- 
pointments, are  adapted  to  the  requirements  of  nearly 
200  guests — 120  of  whom  the  dining  hall  will  seat.  In 
no  hotel  is  there  more  attention  paid  to  the  comfort  and 
convenience,  and  even  luxury  of  its  patrons.  The 
happiness  of  ‘ mine  host,’  the  ever  genial,  ever  gentle- 
manly ‘ Sandy,’  is  in  exact  ratio  to  the  enjoyment  of 
his  visitors.  The  tourist  and  pleasure-seeker  will  find 
this  resting  place,  alike  worthy  of  a visit  and  all  com- 
mendation.” 

Eighteenth — Chateaugay,  a thriving  town,  12  m E.  of 
Malone,  has  many  scenes  of  beauty  in  its  immediate 
neighborhood. 

In  close  proximity  to  the  station  house  is  a wonderful 
chasm,  200  ft.  in  depth,  riving  the'  solid  rocks,  through 
which  the  Chateaugay  River  pours  in  mad  career.  In 
this  gorge  there  occurs  a romantic  cascade  of  50  ft.,  and 


FERGUSON  HOUSE,  MALONE,  N.  Y. 


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Descriptive  guide. 

within  2 m of  tfie  village  there  is  a succession  of  charm- 
ing waterfalls. 

The  railroad  crosses  this  deep  channel  worn  by  the 
Chateaugay,  on  an  embankment,  160  ft.  above  the  river, 
and  800  ft.  long.  There  is  a remarkable  spring  near  the  vil- 
lage that  receives  considerable  attention.  For  quite  a 
space  of  time  it  emits  a large  volume  of  water,  highly 
charged  with  nitrogen  gas,  which  assumes  the  form  of 
bubbles  on  its  surface.  Suddenly  it  ceases  to  flow  and 
remains  dry  for  an  indefinite  period.  One  mile  N.  E.  of 
this  there  is  a constant  gas  spring.  The  Roberts  and  the 
Union  are  the  leading  hotels  of  the  place.  By  permis- 
sion we  quote  the  following  from  Judge  Winslow  C.  Wat- 
son’s excellent  work  on  the  “ Champlain  Valley  and  the 
Adirondacks.” 

“ We  are  indebted  to  the  facile  and  graphic  pen  of  an 
intelligent  lady,  for  a description  of  this  beautiful  locality 
(Chateaugay  Lakes). 

“ The  lower  lake  is  situated  about  8 m S.  of  the  Cha- 
ceaugay  village.  Carriages  meet  the  trains  at  the  depot 
and  convey  passengers  to  this  lake,  by  a pleasant  ride  of 
about  2 hours.  Here  is  a good  hotel,  kept  by  Mr.  Lewis 
Bellows,  which  affords  excellent  accommodations  for  about 
75  guests.  Board,  boats  and  guides,  will  be  furnished  at 
reasonable  charges.  At  the  wharf  in  front  of  the  hotel, 
lies  the  ‘ Nellie  Tupper,’  always  ‘ steamed  up.’  This  lake 
is  2\  m in  length  and  1 wide,  and  surrounded  by  fine 
mountain  scenery  and  rocky  shores.  Leaving  this  water, 
the  tourist  enters  the  Narrows,  4 m long,  and  from  10  to 
40  r in  width,  where  there  is  at  some  points  fine  fishing. 
From  a point,  2 m beyond  the  lower  lake  on  the  W.  shore, 
a foot  path  leads  W.  to  Ragged  Lake  (4  m),  where  the 
best  hunting  and  fishing  may  be  enjoyed  and  reliable 


84 


Descriptive  guide. 


guides  obtained.  The  Narrows  soon  toiden  and  the 
scenery  expands.  A short  turn  is  made  and  the  upper 
lake,  like  magic,  is  revealed  in  one  of  the  most  lovely 
views  in  the  world.  There  are  a number  of  comfortable 
boarding  houses  at  desirable  points,  and  excellent  sport. 
On  the  W.  shore,  fine  private  residences  have  been  con- 
structed by  gentlemen  of  Boston  and  New  York,  who 
spend  the  summers  here  with  their  families.  In  the  cen- 
ter of  the  lake  is  Rock  Island,  with  a small  private  cot- 
tage. On  visiting  the  spot  one  could  easily  imagine  he 
was  in  fairy  land,  the  picture  is  so  grand  and  beautiful, 
and  none  should  leave  the  lake  without  getting  a view  of 
it  from  that  point ; and  few  have  done  so,  if  we  may  judge 
from  the  hundreds  of  names  recorded  there.  Chateaugay 
Lake  is  one  of  the  most  favorable  localities  in  the  State 
for  sportsmen  and  pleasure-seekers,  from  its  easy  access  to 
the  cars  and  telegraphs.  Sometimes  parties,  including 
ladies,  incline  to  stay  at  the  hotel  nights,  and  go  up  the 
lake  in  the  morning,  either  in  small  boats  or  the  steamer  ; 
others,  more  romantic,  prefer  to  ‘ shanty  out/  as  we  call 
it,  in  cabins  or  tents — a very  pleasant  arrangement  in 
warm  weather.” 

Upper  Chateaugay  Lake  is  5x2,  and  thus  there  is  an 
uninterrupted  water  reach,  including  the  two  lakes  and 
the  Narrows  of  1 1 m,  not  to  name  the  several  miles  of 
inlet  navigation.  These  waters  abound  in  the  finest 
quality  of  fish,  such  as  speckled  and  lake  trout,  shad  and 
white  fish. 

Deer  and  other  game  are  found  on  the  neighboring 
hills.  The  Twin  Ponds  lie  3 m from  the  head  of  the 
upper  lake  and  are  reached  by  trail.  From  the  N.  E.  side 
of  the  same  lake — say  1 m from  the  foot,  a pathway  ex- 
tends 3 m E to  Bradley  Pond,  a sheet  of  water  some  2 m 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  85 

in  circumference — another  trout  resort  ; and  from  thence 
Chazy  Lake,  2 m.  farther  E.,  is  accessible  by  a new  plank 
road. 

Frequenters  of  the  Chateaugay  section  will  be  glad  to 
learn  that  a new,  and  spacious  hotel,  needed  so  long  at 
the  upper  lake,  has  recently  been  erected  on  the  S.  E. 
shore,  at  the  foot  of  Birch  Mountain,  back  of  which 
towers  the  tall  form  of  Mt.  Lion.  The  “ Adirondack 
House  ” is  three  stories  in  height,  and  a dancing  hall  and 
three  verandas  extend  the  length  of  the  building.  Three 
m.  S.  E.  is  a rich  bed  of  iron  ore,  extensively  worked. 
One  mile  S.  W.  of  the  hotel,  on  Baker’s  Point,  is  the 
“ Sporting  Lodge,”  kept  by  Nathaniel  Collins.  The 
steamer  will  touch  at  these  and  other  summer  resorts  on 
the  lakes.  The  outlet  of  the  Chateaugay  Lakes  is  the 
Chateaugay  R.,  a tributary  of  the  St.  Lawrence. 

Nineteenth. — P"rom  Rouse’s  Point,  the  E.  terminus  of 
the  Ogdensburg  & Lake  Champlain  R.  R.,  to  Mooer’s 
Junction,  12  m.  ; Chateaugay,  33  m.  ; Malone,  12m.; 
Moira,  14J  m. ; Potsdam  Junction,  21^  m.  ; Ogdensburg, 
25  m.  The  Montreal  & Plattsburg  Railway,  connects 
with  this  railroad  at  Mooer’s  Junction,  20  m.  from  Platts- 
burg. Tourists  from  the  N.  & E.  pass  over  these  lines 
to  visit  the  Chateaugay,  and  perchance  the  St.  Regis  and 
Tupper  Lake  regions.  ( See  routes  from  Plattsburg.) 

The  excellent  restaurant  at  Mooer’s  Junction — Law- 
rence’s Junction  House — demands  more  than  a mere  pass- 
ing notice.  The  superior  lunches  and  dinners  pro- 
vided here,  which  are  always  ready  on  arrival  of  the 
trains,  have  rendered  this  stopping-place  famous  through- 
out this  line  of  travel.  It  furnishes  prime  entertain- 
ment to  travelers  and  permanent  boarders.  (See 
Addenda.) 


DIVISION  III. 


INTO  THE  SARANAC  REGION. 

The  ordinary  avenues  of  approach  are  those  starting 
from  Plattsburg,  Port  Kent  and  Westport. 

Twentieth — Plattsburg  is  beautifully  situated  on  the 
W.  shore  of  Lake  Champlain,  at  the  head  of  Cumberland 
Bay  and  on  both  sides  of  the  Saranac  River.  This 
stream,  in  its  passage  from  its  “ lake-dotted  home  ” in  the 
Great  Wilderness,  flows  with  gentle  current  for  most  of 
the  distance,  until  it  reaches  this  point,  where  it  descends 
some  40  or  50  ft.  by  a succession  of  falls  and  rapids, 
affording  excellent  water  power  to  the  numerous  manu- 
facturing establishments  located  here.  The  surface  of  the 
town  slopes  toward  the  lake,  which  renders  its  situation 
most  delightful.  Plattsburg  is  celebrated  as  the  scene  of 
one  of  the  most  important  battles  that  occurred  during 
the  last  war  with  Great  Britain. 

“ The  village  has  suffered  severely  from  several  destruc- 
tive fires,  but  has  arisen  from  each  infliction  in  augmented 
beauty  and  renovated  vigor,  This  is  attested  by  the  mas- 
sive blocks  of  new  stores  and  manufactories  ; its  elegant 
churches,  public  buildings  and  fine  private  residences. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  %7 

“ Kent’s  Falls,  an  attractive  locality  9 m from  Plattsburg, 
is  reached  by  a pleasant  drive. 

“ The  Ausable  Chasm,  one  of  the  most  wonderful  works 
of  Nature  in  the  country,  may  be  visited  from  Plattsburg 
by  a drive  of  about  12  m,  over  a road  which  for  several 
miles  runs  directly  on  the  margin  of  the  lake,  and  by 
fording  the  Ausable  River,  if  preferred.  In  an  excursion 
to  the  Chasm,  the  drive  might  be  pleasantly  diversified 
by  a circuit  over  Hallock  Hill,  or  by  a visit  to  the  mouth 
of  the  Ausable  River.  The  Chasm  we  shall  describe  in 
another  connection. 

“The  hotels  of  Plattsburg  have  established  high  reputa- 
tions. The  Cumberland  House  and  Witherill’s  Hotel  are 
both  excellent  and  convenient  houses,  spacious  in  their 
arrangements,  and  calculated  for  the  accommodation  of  a 
large  number  of  guests. 

“ Fouquet’s  Hotel,  has  long  been  a prominent  institution 
of  its  kind,  and  familiarly  known  for  more  than  70  years  to 
the  traveling  community.  This  family,  through  this  long 
period,  have  been  accomplished  hotel  keepers,  both  from 
education  and  hereditary  qualities.  Their  American  pro- 
genitor came  to  this  country  with  LaP'ayette,  and  remain- 
ing, opened  a public  house  in  Albany.  His  son,  John  L. 
P'ouquet,  in  1798,  erected  a hotel  near  the  site  occupied 
by  the  present  beautiful  edifice.  That  building — one  of 
first  class  for  the  period — was  burned  during  the  siege  of 
1814,  by  hot  shot  from  the  fort.  In  1815  a second  house 
was  erected  on  the  same  ground,  with  an  improvement 
both  in  style  and  dimensions.  This,  by  repeated  addi- 
tions, had  grown  into  a large  and  CQmmodious  establish- 
ment, but  in  June  1864,  it  also  was  consumed.  With  an 
energy  unsubdued  by  this  calamity  and  with  unfaltering 
enterprise,  the  Messrs.  D.  L.  Fouquet  & Son  commenced 


88 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


the  erection  of  the  third  edifice  ; and  the  next  year,  on  the 
same  day  in  June  on  which  the  last  had  been  burned,  they 
opened  a new  and  splendid  hotel  for  the  reception  of 
guests.  Such  an  invincible  spirit  claims  a success  which 
we  trust  will  be  achieved.  The  new  building  is  an  elegant 
and  spacious  structure,  not  less  imposing  by  its  dimensions 
and  position,  than  attractive  by  the  novelty  and  beauty  of 
its  architecture.  It  is  capable  of  accommodating  15G 
guests,  and  with  style  and  elegance  that  is  always  satisfac- 
tory. The  rooms  are  large  and  well  ventilated,  and 
supplied  with  every  promotive  of  comfort  and  enjoyment. 
The  grounds  and  flower  garden,  animate  with  beauty  and 
redolent  with  fragrance,  afford  a most  agreeable  retreat. 
The  broad  piazzas  on  two  sides  of  the  house,  and  the  prom- 
enade upon  the  roof,  afford  a wide  and  delightful  view  of 
the  lake,  the  battle  ground  and  the  scene  of  the  naval  en- 
gagement ; the  village,  the  surrounding  country,  the  Green 
Mountains  on  the  E.,  and  the  Adirondacks  on  the  S.,  pre- 
senting every  variety  of  scenery  ; the  wild,  the  picturesque, 
the  grand. 

“ This  house,  by  its  beautiful  and  spacious  grounds,  and 
quiet,  furnishes  peculiarly  safe  and  pleasant  accommoda- 
tions for  the  residence  of  ladies  and  children  during  the 
summer. 

“ The  large  brick  stables,  standing  on  the  grounds,  and 
erected  at  a cost  of  $6,000,  will  delight  the  amateur  in 
horses  by  their  perfect  and  elaborate  arrangements.  They 
are  intended  for  the  accommodation  of  guests  who  bring 
their  own  horses  and  carriages,  as  well  as  to  furnish  t$ams 
for  rides  and  excursions.  A livery  is  attached  to  the 
house. 

Fouquet’s  Hotel  was  for  many  years  the  annual  resort 
of  General  Scott,  who  made  his  home  here  for  weeks  at  a 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


89 


time,  not  only  for  the  purpose  of  recruiting  his  health  m 
this  invigorating  climate,  but  also  to  enjoy  the  diet  of  fresh 
game  and  fish,*provided  for  the  guests  of  the  house  by  Mr. 
Fouquet,  who  was  the  prince  of  caterers. 

“ Capt.  John  B.  Magruder,  afterwards  the  Confederate 
General,  made  his  headquarters  here,  while  his  company 
was  stationed  at  the  neighboring  barracks.  At  that  time 
the  old  regimental  mess  of  the  First  U.  S.  Artillery,  gave 
its  dinners  at  the  Fouquet  House,  to  which  British  officers 
were  often  invited.  Many  legends  are  handed  down  of 
those  jolly  meetings,  at  which  ‘ Prince  John  ’ was  the  pre- 
siding and  irrepressible  genius. 

“The  original  name  of  this  hotel  was  ‘ The  MacDonough 
House,’  named  after  the  gallant  naval  officer  of  that  name, 
who  made  his  home  here  for  a long  time,  and  was  the  per- 
sonal friend  of  the  first  proprietor.  The  best  likeness 
extant,  of  the  gallant  hero,  is  in  possession  of  the  present 
landlords. 

“ Among  the  many  officers  who  have  been  from  time  to 
time  quartered  here  and  lived  at  this  house,  we  may  men- 
tion the  names  of  Wool,  Booneville,  the  gallant  Hooker, 
Kearne}q  and  the  genial  Ricketts.  Gen’l  Worth  boarded 
here  a long  time,  and  Stonewall  Jackson  was  also  a friend 
of  the  house.  Of  all  these  officers,  many  characteristic 
anecdotes  are  yet  current  in  the  neighborhood. 

“ It  is  the  principle  resting  place  for  parties  en  route 
between  Montreal  and  Lake  George,  and  is  situated  upon 
the  threshold  of  the  favorite  entrance  to  the  Adiron- 
dacks.  | 

“ The  proprietors  of  this  hotel  have  made  the  Adiron- 
dacks  a study,  and  will  be  pleased  to  answer,  by  mail  or 
otherwise,  any  enquiries  in  reference  to  modes  of  convey- 
ance and  distances  to  any  part  of  the  Wilderness.” — [ Wat- 
son's “Valley  of  Lake  Chaplain” 


90 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Lake  Champlain  from  Whitehall  to  St.  Johns  is  one 
hundred  and  twenty  miles  in  length,  and  is  about  thirteen 
miles  in  width,  opposite  Port  Kent,  at  its  broadest  point. 

The  rare  and  exceeding  beauty  of  this  lake  attracts 
and  entrances  the  observer.  Travelers  pronounce  it  to 
be  unsurpassed  in  either  hemisphere,  in  its  peculiar 
combination  of  the  picturesque  and  beautiful  with  im- 
posing magnificence.  On  the  eastern  shore  it  is  lined 
by  a highly  cultivated  country,  bounded  in  the  horizon  by 
the  irregular  outline  of  Green  Mountains  ; on  the  west, 
the  dark  and  towering  Adirondacks,  broken  into  dis- 
located groups,  spread  into  the  interior  as  far  as  the  eye 
reaches,  at  points  projecting  their  rugged  spurs  into  the 
bosom  of  the  lake,  and  often  forming  lofty  headlands 
covered  by  dense  forests,  or  presenting  frowning  masses 
of  naked  rocks.  Choice  ranges  of  table  land  intervene 
occasionally,  strikingly  contrasting  with  the  rude  moun- 
tain scenery,  by  the  richest  agricultural  improvements, 
and  embellishment  of  pleasant  villages.  Numberless 
islands  enhance  the  beauty  of  the  scene. 

The  scenery  of  the  lake  in  the  winter  is  indescribably 
beautiful  and  imposing,  when  earth  and  ice  are  clothed 
in  their  pure  dazzling  mantle  of  snow,  and  the 
mountains  glow  in  the  sun  beams  like  vast  masses  of 
opal. 

Lake  Champlain  will  attain  a far  more  momentous  com- 
mercial attitude  than  it  has  ever  occupied,  if  the  magnif- 
icent conception  of  uniting  the  waters  of  the  St.  Law- 
rence with  the  Hudson  by  ship  canals,  of  which  the 
lake  would  be  an  important  link,  should  be  realized. 

Ticonderoga  is  twenty-four  miles  from  Whitehall. 
Champlain  (from  whom  the  lake  was  named)  undoubt- 
edly penetrated  as  far  as  this  point,  and  probably  visited 


FOQUET’S  HOTEL,  PLATTSBURGH,  N,  Y. 


7 //?  "a  AA? 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


91 


Lake  George.  In  this  vicinity  must  have  occurred  the 
merciless  battle  with  the  Iroquois  he  described  with  such 
graphic  power  in  his  journal,  and  an  account  of  which 
will  be  found  in  all  the  recent  histories  of  the  region. 
The  venerable  ruins  standing  upon  the  bold/  rocky 
summit  of  the  promontory  are  viewed  with  peculiar  ad- 
vantage in  the  approach  from  the  south.  The  fortress 
at  Ticonderoga,  called  by  the  French  Carillon,  bears  the 
same  allusion  as  Che-onderoga,  the  original  of  Ticon- 
deroga, to  the  brawling  waters  of  the  outlet,  was  com- 
menced in  1 75 5.  No  spot  on  the  continent  is  surrounded 
with  a deeper  and  more  thrilling  interest.  Not  only 
from  its  majestic  ruins  and  hoary  age  does  it  claim 
attention,  but  deep  emotion  is  aroused  by  the  fact  that  it 
has  been  held  by  the  military  possession  of  three  distinct 
nations,  and  is  the  common  theatre  of  their  glories  and 
triumphs,  and  of  their  defeats  and  disasters.  Its  envi- 
rons were  the  nursery  of  the  heroes  of  the  revolution. 
Most  of  the  ramparts,  the  covered  way,  and  walls  of  the 
edifices  remain,  and  will  attract  and  reward  the  re- 
searches of  the  tourist.  The  bakery,  situated  near  the 
south-western  angle  of  the  barracks  and  beneath  the 
glacis,  is  the  best  preserved  portion  of  the  works.  Im- 
mediately above  the  steamboat  landing  may  be  traced 
the  “Grenadiers’  Battery,”  at  one  period  a formidable 
redoubt. 

A section  of  the  Whitehall  & Plattsburg  Railroad*  is 
constructed  between  Whitehall  and  Port  Henry,  (passing 
through  Ticonderoga,)  a distance  of  forty-one  miles.  A 
railroad  has  also  been  built  from  Ticonderoga  to  Lake 
George  (4|m.) — rendering -a  tedious  stage  ride  no  longer 
necessary  — where  #the  beautiful  steamer  Minnehaha 
receives  passengers  and  conveys  them  through  that 
peerless  sheet. 


92 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


At  Fort  Ticonderoga  the  traveler  will  embark  upon 
one  of  the  majestic  steamers  of  the  Champlain  Trans- 
portation Company,  which  form  a day  and  night  line 
between  this  place  and  Rouse’s  Point,  connecting  with 
various  railroad  routes  on  their  passage.  These  vessels 
are  models  of  elegance,  neatness  and  convenience ; 
their  tasteful  furnishing  is  wholly  of  native  woods,  and 
they  are  regarded  as  second  to  no  steamer  that  floats  on 
American  waters. 

On  the  Vermont  shore,  the  first  landing,  about  two 
miles,  is  Larabee’s  Point,  in  Shoreham,  (United  States 
Hotel.)  The  traveler’s  attention  will  soon  be  attracted 
by  the  ruins  of  Crown  Point.  A part  of  the  barracks 
and  the  fortifications  are  in  good  preservation,  and, 
although  not  tinged  with  any  of  the  romance  that  en- 
trances at  Carillon,  are  interesting  as  memorials  of  more 
than  a century  ago.  Opposite  Crown  Point  is  Chimney 
Point,  presenting  a bold  bluff,  designated  by  the  French 
“ Point  a la  Cheveleur.” 

Two  miles  across  Bulwagga  Bay,  the  boat  reaches 
Port  Henry.  At  the  south  appears  the  rough  acclivities 
of  the  Bulwagga  Mountains.  Port  Henry  is  pleasantly 
situated,  and  is  the  site  of  one  of  the  most  extensive 
iron  works  in  the  region.  Pease  Hotel  is  situated  here  ; 
the  Sherman  House  about  two  miles  in  the  interior,  and 
contiguous  to  the  vast  mineral  district.  Both  are  spa- 
cious and  excellent  houses.  A small  steamer,  the 
Curlew , plies  between  Port  Henry  and  Vergennes  daily. 
Leaving  Vergennes  at  9.30  A.  M.,  on  the  arrival  of  the 
southern  train,  and  stopping  at  Fort  Cassin,  Westport 
and  Basin  Harbor,  arrives  at  Port  Henry  in  advance  of 
the  northern  boat,  and  departs  at,  1.30  P.  M.,  after  the 
arrival  of  the  south  boat.  After  leaving  Port  Henry  the 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


93 


mountain  views  on  each  side  of  the  lake  begin  to 
unfold  to  the  tourist,  in  their  beauty  and  grandeur.  The 
Bald  Mountain,  standing  midway  between  Port  Henry 
and  Westport,  is  about  two  thousand  feet  high.  It  is 
easily  accessible,  and  from  its  isolated  position  and  prox- 
imity to  the  water  affords  a rich  panoramic  view  of  the 
lake  a length  of  fifty  miles,  and  of  the  Vermont  shore, 
with  surrounding  mountains  on  every  side.  Near  the 
base  of  the  mountain  lie  the  “Adirondack  Springs.” 
Westport  is  ten  miles  from  Port  Henry.  The  spires 
of  Vergepnes,  in  the  east,  will  soon  be  perceived.  The 
lake  again  contracts  in  breadth,  and  at  its  narrowest 
point  are  the  ruins  of  Fort  Cassin,  at  the  mouth  of  Otter 
Creek  (Riviere  aux  Loutres,)  the  largest  river  in  Ver- 
mont, and  navigable  eight  miles  to  Vergennes.  The 
Fort  Cassin  House  is  a quiet  and  agreeable  resort.  On 
the  opposite  side  of  the  lake  are  Split  Rock  Mountains, 
with  a Light  House  at  the  north  extremity.  In  front  of 
this  is  a remarkable  formation  called  by  the  French 
“ Roche  Fendu,”  and  now  known  as  Split  Rock.  It 
contains  about  half  an  acre  of  earth  and  rock,  and  rises 
thirty  feet  in  a bold  and  vertical  front,  being  separated 
from  the  main  land  by  a fissure  ten  feet  wide.  Essex, 
twelve  miles  from  Westport,  is  a pleasant  village,  delight- 
fully located.  (Royce’s  Hotel.)  A few  miles  north  of 
Essex,  almost  hidden  from  observation  by  overhanging 
trees  and  bushes,  is  the  mouth  of  the  Boquet  River,  a 
stream  of  great  industrial  value  and  interest,  which 
enters  the  lake  at  the  foot  of  the  long  peninsula  on  the 
west  shore,  now  called  Willsboro  Point.  This  was  the 
site  of  the  pioneer  Gilliland’s  Colony  in  1765,  and  the 
scene  of  Burgoyne’s  noted  treaty  with  the  Indians  a 
dozen  years  later.  The  four  islands  directly  in  front, 


94 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


representing  the  cardinal  points  of  the  compass,  were 
known  by  the  French  as  Isles  des  quarter  vents,  and  to 
the  English,  the  Four  Brothers.  Near  these  islands  the 
last  desperate  battle  between  Arnold  and  Carlton’s  fleets 
occurred. 

Nearly  opposite,  upon  one  of  the  highest  peaks  of  the 
Green  Mountains,  will  be  observed  a very  striking  object, 
which  seems  like  the  effigy  of  a reposing  lion,  carved  on 
the  imperishable  rock.  The  French  called  the  moun- 
tain Leon  Couchant ; it  is  now  degraded  into  the  name 
of  Camel’s  Hump.  We  now  approach  Rock  Dunder, 
which  appears  almost  to  interpose  in  the  steamer’s  track,. 
It  is  a dark,  naked  rock,  rising  in  a perfect  cone  more 
than  thirty  feet  above  the  water.  Recent  researches 
seem  to  identify  it  with  the  “ Greek  Rock  Reggio,”  so 
prominent  in  the  colonial  archives,  and,  according  to  the 
remote  traditions  of  the  Mohawks,  a grand  landmark  in 
past  ages  in  the  boundary  line  between  their  domains 
and  the  country  of  the  Algonquins.  They  long  pre- 
served the  story  that  a great  chief — ages  before  the 
advent  of  the  pale  faces — named  Reggio,  was  drowned 
at  its  base,  and  from  him  the  rock  and  the  lake  were 
called  Reggio.  (Watson’s  Essex  County.)  Just  on  the 
left  is  the  Light  House  upon  Juniper  Island,  and  on  the 
right  hand  Shelburn  Bay,  a long  and  narrow  sheet  oi 
water  extending  four  miles  inland.  Here  is  situated  the 
harbor  and  ship-yard  of  the  Champlain  Transportation 
Company,  where  their  steamers  are  built ; and  here  their 
condemned  hulks  are  collected,  dismantled  and  left  to 
decay. 

The  elegant,  spacious  mansion  of  Col.  Le  Grand  B. 
Cannon,  occupying  a conspicuous  eminence  immediately 
south  of  the  city,  will  command  particular  notice.  Burl- 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


% 

ington  is  one  of  the  most  beautiful  and  prosperous  cities 
of  New  England,  and  its  commanding  position  and  great 
beauty  are  presented  from  the  lake  with  peculiar  ad- 
vantage. Most  of  the  streets  are  shaded  by  stately 
trees,  and,  lined  by  many  elegant  edifices,  embowered 
with  trees  and  shrubbery.  The  “ Van  Ness  ” and  the 
“American”  are  the  leading  hotels  In  the  transit  of 
ten  miles  between  Burlington  and  Port  Kent,  the  lover 
of  nature  will  contemplate  her  works  revealed  in  exquisite 
loveliness  and  in  the  wildest  sublimity.  The  lake, 
studded  with  headlands  and  Isle,  expands  on  every  side 
in  the  richest  panorama.  On  one,  the  eye  traces  the 
outline  of  the  Green  Mountains,  half  the  length  of 
Vermont,  and  on  the  other  spread  the  Adirondacks, 
thrown  into  chaotic  groups,  with  some  of  their  highest 
summits  lifted  into  the  distant  horizon. 

Schuyler’s  Island,  (Capon  F.,)  which,  at  an  early  period 
was  occupied  as  an  encampment  by  Schuyler,  lies  on  the 
left.  Point  Trembleau,  on  the  mainland,  is  one  of 
the  few  poetical  names  preserved  from  the  French 
nomenclature. 

The  view  from  Port  Kent  is  among  the  most  beautiful 
and  extensive  upon  the  lake.  The  large  stone  mansion 
standing  upon  the  elevated  ground  was  the  former  resi- 
dence of  Elkanah  Watson.*  The  passage  of  fifteen 
miles  to  Plattsburgh  is  crowded  with  objects  of  great 
historic  interest.  On  the  pine  plain  a mile  and  a half 
north  was  the  site  of  Amherst’s  brief  encampment  in 
1759.  The  little  island  almost  touching  Valcour  Island 
on  the  south  is  called  Garden  Island,  from  the  tradition 
that  it  was  occupied  by  the  French  and  English  naval 

*It  is  now  the  home  of  his  worthy  descendant,  Winslow  C.  Watson, — the 
able  historian  of  Essex  County  and  the  Valley  of  the  Champlain. — Ed. 


96 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


officers  for  the  cultivation  of  culinary  vegetables.  At 
the  southern  extremity  of  Valcour,  just  in  front  of  a tiny 
grass  plat,  lie  the  remains  of  the  Royal  Savage,  a large 
schooner  of  twelve  guns,  sunk  in  Arnold’s  battle. 

Crab  Island,  St.  Michael  of  the  French,  and  known  for 
a time  as  Hospital  Island,  from  the  fact  that  the  wounded 
of  both  fleets  in  1814  were  placed  upon  it,  lies  north  of 
Valcour.  Between  this  island  and  the  peninsula  of 
Cumberland  Head  is  the  theatre  of  MacDoaough  s 
victory.  A mile  south  of  Plattsburgh  will  be  noticed 
the  modern  government  barracks  The  old  forts  and 
cantonment  were  located  between  the  new  barracks  and 
the  village. 

The  trip  between  Plattsburgh  and  Rouse’s  Point  pre- 
sent aspects  unlike  any  other  section  of  the  lake,  but  is 
still  peculiarly  pleasant  and  beautiful.  The  steamboat 
landing  is  immediately  contiguous  to  the  depots  of  the 
Montreal  & Plattsburgh  and  Whitehall  & Plattsburgh 
Railroads.  Not  stopping  at  this  important  and  interest- 
ing village,  (Plattsburgh,)  to  which  we  shall  return,  we 
proceed  with  the  steamer  on  her  route  to  Rouse’s  Point. 
After  passing  Cumberland  Head,  we  leave  the  broad 
expansion  of  water,  the  rocky  cliffs  and  stern  promon- 
tories, but  instead,  as  we  thread  a more  confined  and 
placid  channel  are  delighted  with  a view  of  the  rich  and 
luxuriant  shores  of  the  islands  of  Vermont  and  the  main- 
land of  New  York,  with  the  scenery  of  the  remote  moun- 
tains on  either  side  softened  by  distance.  Cumberland 
Head,  (Cap  Scrononton,  of  the  French,)  three  miles  from 
Plattsburgh,  has  been  a prominent  landmark  of  the  lake, 
and  an  interesting  point  in  its  annals.  On  the  east 
stretches  Grand  Isle,  the  largest  island  in  the  lake,  and 
one  of  the  most  fertile  and  lovely  places  in  Vermont. 
Twelve  miles  beyond  Cumberland  Head  is  Isle  La 
Motte.  This  island  and  Point  Au  Fer  on  the  western 
shore,  a little  north,  were  occupied  and  important  mili- 
tary positions,  both  in  the  Colonial  and  Revolutionary 
war.  The  Little  and  Big  Chazy  Rivers  enter  the  lake  a 
short  distance  south  of  Point  Au  Fer.  The  projection 


DESCRIPtl^E  GUIDE. 


97 


from  the  Vermont  shore,  nearly  east  of  the  north  ex- 
tremity of  Isle  La  Motte,  is  Alburgh  Tongue,  distin- 
guished by  the  French  as  Pointe  Algonquin.  The 
entrance  to  the  beautiful  Missisquoi  Bay  will  be  ob- 
served east  of  this  point.  Eight  miles  beyond  Isle  La 
Motte,  on  the  eastern  shore,  is  situated  Wind  Mill  Point. 
The  French  erected  at  this  place  a large  stone  mill  in 
1731.  This  fact  originated  its  name.  Directly  opposite 
is  the  village  of  Rouse’s  Point,  and  a mile  beyond  are 
the  steamboat  landing  and  the  depots  of  the  Montreal  & 
St.  Johns  and  Ogdensburg  & Lake  Champlain  Rail 
roads  — Valley  of  Lake  Champlain. 

Parties  traversing  Lake  Champlain  find  Plattsburgh  a 
most  available  point  of  entrance  to  the  woods. 

(See  Addenda  for  routes  from  Plattsburgh  to  various 
points  of  interest .) 

The  various  articles  of  outfit  needed  in  camp-life,  may 
be  procured  here  of  the  following  leading  firms  : — 

Guns,  Ammunition,  Fishing  Tackle,  &c.,  of  M.  P.  Myers 
& Co.,  (Hardware)  ; Canned  Fruits,  Jellies,  Preserves, 
Crackers,  &c  , of  John  McCadden;  Hats,  Caps,  Trunks, 
Traveling  Bags  and  Furnishing  Goods,  of  Spear  Bros., 
(this  house  also  pays  to  trappers  the  highest  prices  for 
Raw  Furs ;)  Clothing,  Rubber  Coats,  Blankets  and 
Tents,  (the  latter  sold  or  rented,)  of  E.  Hathaway  & Son  ; 
Boots,  Shoes  and  Rubbers,  of  C.  D.  Vincent  ; Cooking 
Utensils  for  forest  use,  of  Geo.  N.  Webb  & Son,  (Stoves, 
Steam  and  Gas  Fitting)  ; Musquito  Bite  Preventive — 
“Dead  Shot” — oh,  joy  untold! — to  every  species  of 
insect  that  mar  our  felicity  when  camping  out,  of  F.  R. 
Danis,  (Drugs)  ; and  Liveries,  of  Stave  & Ransom,  who 
have  always  in  readiness  superior  establishments  for 
excursions  to  Ausable  Chasm,  Hunter’s  Home  and  other 
favorite  resorts.  Surveying  in  the  Wilderness  or  else- 


98 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


where  will  be  efficiently  done  by  D.  B.  Johnson  & Son, 
who  possess  many  valuable  original  Maps  and  Field 
Notes  of  Clinton  Co.  (See  Addenda.) 

Before  examining  the  principal  route  from  Plattsburgh 
to  the  Great  Forest,  we  will  make  one  or  two  pleasant 
excursions  to  the  Wilderness  lakes,  by  stage  or  private 
conveyance.  Of  these  the  drive  to  the  Clinton  Prison 
at  Dannemora(i6  m.)  over  a plank  road,  and  from  thence 
to  Chazy  Lake  (5  m.,)  is  especially  noticeable. 

This  “ prison  in  the  woods,”  together  with  the  adjacent 
village,  occupy  an  eminence  1,700  feet  high,  the  ascent 
to  which  is  so  gradual  as  to  be  hardly  observable.  From 
this  elevation  is  seen  an  embodiment  of  landscape  love- 
liness, upon  which  the  eye  dwells  with  never-failing  de- 
light. In  the  east,  the  horizon  is  bounded  by  the  Green 
Mountains  looming  up  dim  and  blue ; Lake  Champlain 
in  queenly  beauty,  stretching  far  away,  cultivated  lands 
richly  diversified,  and  the  “ silver  thread  of  the  Saranac,” 
gracefully  curving  through  its  emerald  plains,  cover 
the  intervening  space  ; toward  the  S.  W.  the  imposing 
architecture  of  the  Adirondacks,  rising  in  Doric  sublimity 
from  forests  seemingly  without  limit,  fill  the  remainder  of 
the  picture  A more  glorious  view  is  seldom  witnessed 
even  from  mountain  tops. 

The  Clinton  House  at  Dannemora,  (Brooks  & Roberts’ 
stage  coaches  run  from  Plattsburgh  to  this  place  daily,) 
supplies  all  the  requisite  paraphernalia  to  travelers  tarry- 
ing here.  (See  Addenda.)  The  road  from  thence  to  Chazy 
Lake  was  constructed  by  the  State  and  is  in  excellent 
condition.  This  magnificent  body  of  water  (4  * 1 £,) 
a tributary  of  Lake  Champlain,  is  justly  renowned  for 
.its  attractiveness  to  the  sportsman  and  to  the  admirer 
of  Nature’s  picturesque  beauties.  Trout  in  satisfactory 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


99 

numbers  and  of  superior  quality,  inhabit  its  waters,  and 
scenery  the  most  charming  invests  its  environs.  Mt. 
Lion,  whose  peculiar  form  strikingly  suggests  the  figure 
of  the  “king  of  beasts,”  in  couchant  attitude,  as  if  about 
to  spring  upon  his  prey,  rises  from  the  shores  of  the  lake 
in  proud  conspfcuousness. 

The  Meader  House,  located  on  the  E.  side,  between 
Eagle  and  Half-way  Point,  is  a delightful  resort,  affording 
every  comfort  and  facility  required  by  tourists. 

Bradley  Pond,  2 m W.,  is  reached  by  wagon  road  and 
from  thence  a path  extends  westward  3 m to  U.  Chateau- 
gay  Lake. 

The  route  of  the  tourist  to  Dannemora  and  Chazy  Lake 
is  a branch  of  the  main  road,  which  forks  at  Elsinore,  a 
village  about  12  m W.  of  Plattsburg.  This  highway  passes 
through  a romantic  section  of  country,  generally  over- 
looks the  Saranac  R.  and  crosses  several  of  its  picturesque 
branches.  At  the  Great  P'alls  of  the  Saranac,  near 
Russia  and  Saranac  villages,  18  m from  Plattsburg,  the 
scenery  is  especially  replete  with  grandeur  and  varied 
beauty.  From  thence  to  Redford  it  is  4 m ; Clayburgh — 
within  i mof  Saranac  Forks — 2 m.  Here  the  route,  thus 
far  an  excellent  one,  divides,  following  the  two  branches 
of  the  Saranac  over  poor  roads.  The  N.  branch  leads  to 
Petersburg,  m ; thence  to  “ Hunter’s  Plome,”  situated 
on  N.  Saranac  (before  noted),  1 1 m ; J.  M.  Wardney’s,  9 
m ; another  pleasant  resort  for  sportsmen  on  Rainbow 
Lake  (3  x {).  Hunting  and  speckled  trout  fishing  are 
successfully  followed  here. 

Round  Pond  and  Buck  Pond,  which  are  passed  when 
approaching  Rainbow  Lake,  also  afford  the  very  best  of 
sport.  It  was  in  Round  Pond  that  the  largest  lake  trout 
on  record  was  caught,  reaching  the  extraordinary  weight 


IOC)  DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 

of  52  lbs.  The  Quackinbush  party  of  Troy  were  the 
lucky  captors  of  this  monster. 

Wardner’s  forest  home — the  Rainbow  House — is  em- 
inently calculated  to  answer  the  requirements  of  seekers 
after  rest,  health,  sport  or  scenic  beauty.  It  is  emphatic- 
ally desirable  to  those  who  would  avoid  the  bustle  and 
expense  of  the  larger  hotels.  And  people  are  becoming 
aware  of  all  this,  as  each  year  brings  an  increased  amount 
of  visitors.  Situated  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  a 
charming  group  of  lakes  and  lakelets,  and  furnishing  the 
best  of  accommodations  at  the  most  moderate  rates,  it  is 
not  surprising  that  it  is  thus  rapidly  growing  in  public 
esteem.  The  table  is  well  supplied,  the  rooms  are  neat 
and  pleasant,  and  every  reasonable  comfort  is  afforded. 
Capacity,  50.  Mr.  Wardner’s  great  experience  too,  in 
forest  life,  renders  him  a most  suitable  conductor  of  such 
an  establishment.  Nor  should  we  omit  to  call  attention 
to  Mrs.  Wardner’s  talent  as  a taxidermist,  a most  im- 
portant matter  to  those  desiring  to  have  the  trophies  of 
their  skill  properly  dressed  and  mounted.  (See  Addenda.) 

This  locality  is  especially  attractive  to  sportsmen,  for 
in  few  places  are  the  trout  finer,  larger,  or  more  abun- 
dant. The  waters  most  noted  for  angling  purposes  are 
Rainbow  L.,  Jones  P.,  Round  P.  (i|  x 1),  Buck  P.  (1  x f), 
Lily  Pad  P.  (i  x %),  Elbow  P.  (i  x and  Plumadore  P. 
Besides  these,  there  is  excellent  fishing  in  this  the  N. 
Branch  of  the  Saranac,  from  Hunter’s  Home  to  the  head 
of  the  stream — about  3 m.  above  Rainbow  L. — and  also 
in  Jones  Inlet.  Nigger  Brook,  North  Branch,  Cold 
Brook,  Rainbow  L.  and  Round  P.  abound  in  superior 
“ lakers  ” — frequently  attaining  enormous  proportions, 
especially  in  the  latter  sheet,  as  heretofore  noted.  From 
Loon  L.  (2f  x f)  three  speckled  trout  were  taken  at  one 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


IOI 


time  in  the  fall  of  1871,  by  Mr.  A.  Washburn,  a famous 
hunter  living  near,  which  weighed,  respectively,  3f,  4 
and  4-5  lbs.  Still  this  sheet  is  not  overstocked  with  such 
fellows.  Plumadore  P.  furnishes  very  peculiar  speckled 
.trout — silvery,  thick  set  beauties.  Most  of  the  lakes  and 
ponds  named,  including  Loon  L.,  are  linked  together  by 
the  North  Branch  of  the  Saranac.  Plumadore  and  El- 
bow Ponds  flow  into  Salmon  R.;  Jones’  feeds  Osgood  P. 
and  that  Meacham  L. 

In  making  the  following  excursions,  we  will  visit,  in 
detail,  nearly  all  the  waters  mentioned. 

Water  Routes  from  Rainbow  House  to  Hunter  s Home , 
&c. — Path,  i m.  E.  ; N.  Saranac  R.,  \ m.  ; Rainbow  L , 
3 m. ; river,  f m.  ; Lily  Pad  P.,  ^ m.  ; river,  2 m.  ; Round 
P.,  i|  m.  ; road  to  Hunter’s  Home,  4 m.  N.  E.  Total, 
12J  m.  Or  the  route  can  be  varied  thus  : — Portage 
from  Round  P.  around  a dam,  5 r.  ; river,  ^ m.  ; Mud  P. 
(I  * I),  i m.  ; river,  ^ m.  to  “ Thatcherville  thence  road, 
2 m,  to  Hunter’s  Home.  Total  uf  m.  River  naviga- 
tion rather  difficult. 

From  Mud  P.  pass  up  inlet  1 m.  N. — with  80  r.  portage 
— to  reach  Loon  L. 

Carry  from  the  river,  just  above  Round  P.,  J m.  S E. 
to  Buck  P. 

Carry  from  Round  P.,  \ m.  to  Hope  P.  (2  x i)  I also 
carry  from  Round  P,  | N.  W.  to  Mountain  P.  (1  xf). 

Clear  P.  (2  x is  4 r.  N.  of  Rainbow  L.  ; and  i m.  N. 
of  that  is  Loon  P.  (f  * J). 

Square  P.  (f  * -J)  is  4 r.  N.  of  Rainbow  L. — just  E of 
Clear  P.  Carry  over  a steep  ridge. 

Carry  ^ m.  S.  E from  Lily  Pad  to  Oregon  P.  (ji  x i). 

Water  Route  from  Rainbow  House  to  Paul  Smith's. — 
Road  S.  W.,  1 m.  ; Jones  P.,  1^  m.  ; outlet,  1 \ m. ; Os- 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


162 

good  P.,  2 m.  ; portage  to  Paul  Smith’s,  f m.  S.  Total. 
6\  m. 

Distance  .by  road  from  Wardner’s  to  Paul  Smith’s,  7 m. 

To  Barnum  P.  (i£  « {),  it  is  5 m.  ; Grass  P.  (J  * J),  1 1 
m. ; Elbow  P.,  12m.;  Duck  P.  (1  * f),  14  m.  ; Plumadore 
P.,  16  m.  Barnum  is  reached  via  Jones  and  Osgood  P. 
All  the  others  via  Loon  L.  (9!  m.),  or  Hunter’s  Home. 

To  Clear  P.,  1 m.  ; Loon  P.,  1^-  m.  ; Square  P.,  3im.  ; 
Lily  Pad  P.,  4J-  m.  ; Oregon  P.,  5 m ; Round  P.,  6f  m., 
(by  road,  4%  m.)  ; Buck  P.,  6f  m.,  (road,  4!  m.)  ; Hope 
P.,  7 m. ; Mountain  P.,  7^  m. ; Mud  P.,  8 \ m. 

Many  of  these  waters  are  the  resort  of  deer.  Their 
situation  makes  this  apparent.  Near  the  hotel  is 
a strip  of  ground  once  burned  over,  but  now  cov- 
ered by  thrifty  second  growth  which  affords  fine  harbor 
for  ruffed  grouse  and  deer,  and  rare  sport  is  frequently 
experienced  there.  It  may  well  be  imagined  that  the 
varied  charms  presented  by  this  net  work  of  glittering 
lakes  thus  beautifully  interlaced,  greatly  enhance  the 
fascination  of  sporting  in  their  midst. 

From  Wardner’s  to  Bloomingdale  it  is  7 m.  by  excel- 
lent road.  To  this  place  Miller’s  & Harper’s  fine  Concord 
stages  run  daily  from  Point  of  Rocks,  and  here  parties 
who  have  engaged  rooms  at  the  Rainbow  House,  will 
find  teams  in  readiness  to  convey  them  thither.  Ad- 
dress, J.  M.  Wardner,  Bloomingdale,  Essex  Co.,  N.  Y. 

Those  visiting  the  Rainbow  section  via  Hunter’s 
Home  from  Plattsburg,  will  take  the  stage  (Brooks  & 
Roberts’  line,)  which  runs  to  Redford,  (21  m.  fare  $1.25) ; 
from  thence  the  same  party  will  furnish  them  with  pri- 
vate conveyances  to  the  latter  point  for  $8.00  or  $10.00 
extra.  Messrs.  Stave  & Ransom,  of  Plattsburg,  proprie- 
tors of  the  leading  livery  there,  will  also  provide  first- 
class  turnouts  at  reasonable  rates.  (See  Addenda.) 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


103 


From  “ Hunter’s  Home  ” to  Merrillsville,  on  the 
Ausable  Forks  road,  it  is  1 m.  S.  ; thence  to  Vermont- 
ville,  diverging  from  the  main  road  and  passing  S.  over 
Cape  Mt.,  5 m.;  Bloomingdale,  3 m. 

By  the  S.  branch  road  from  Saranac  Forks  to  Silver 
Lake,  (3  x 1,)  Marvin’s  Hotel,  it  is  5^-  m.,  and  the  same 
distance  to  Union  Falls  by  the  divergent  road,  the  two 
again  uniting  at  the  Falls  3 m.  W.  ol  the  lake  ; thence 
to  Franklin  Falls,  8 m. ; Bloomingdale,  8 m. 

But  the  easiest,  the  speediest,  and  hence  the  favorite 
mode  of  transit  from  Plattsburg  to  the  Wilderness  is  via 
the  Whitehall  & Plattsburg  R.  R.  By  this  railway  to 
Point  of  Rocks,  (Ausable  Station,)  it  is  20  m.,  where 
passengers  will  find  Ensine  Miller’s  or  Wm.  Harper’s 
elegant  four-horse  coaches  in  waiting  to  convey  them  to 
Et.  Regis  or  the  Saranac  Lakes. 

From  Point  of  Rocks,  over  a good  plank  road,  to 
Ausable  Forks,  3 m.  ; Black  Brook,  4 m.  ; Franklin 
Falls,  (Franklin  House — travelers  dine  here,)  14  m.  ; 
Bloomingdale,  8 m. ; — from  which  one  line  of  stages  pro- 
ceeds to  Martin’s,  8 m. ; one  to  VanArnam’s,*  13  m.  ; 
and  another  to  Paul  Smith’s,  10  m. 

In  this  approach  occasional  glimpses  are  enjoyed  of 
the  gigantic  forms  of  the  Adirondack  Range. 

“ Pol.  Smith’s”!  is  a name  that  has  become  almost  as 
familiar  to  the  ears  of  the  sportsman  as  that  of  the  “Adi- 
rondack Woods.”  To  the  initiated,  it  is  a name  always 


* Prospect  House,  at  the  head  of  U.  Saranac  Lake,  usually  called  “ Hough’s.” 
If  this  name  appears  on  some  of  these  pages  it  will  be  understood  as  the 
traditional  name. 

f P.  O.  address,  “Apollo  A.  Smith,  Bloomingdale,  Essex  Co.,  N.  Y.”  (See 
routes  from  Spring  Cove  Cottage  and  Malone  to  St.  Regis  Lake,  pp.  67  & 70.) 


T04 


descriptive  guide. 


suggestive  of  beautiful  scenery,  luxurious  quarters,  epicu- 
rean meals,  delightful  hours.  The  house  which  has  a :: 
capacity  for  200  guests,  is  a model  of  comfort  and  home  I 
like  pleasantness,  located  on  the  N shore  of  the  lovely 
Lower  St.  Regis  Lake,  in  the  midst  of  &n  extensive  pine 
grove,  a dense  forest  stretching  thence  away  on  nearly  every 
side. 

It  is  supplied  with  every  modern  convenience,  includ- 
ing  bath  rooms,  barber  shop,  etc.,  and  also  billiard  tables,  j 
There  is  an  extensive  livery  stable,  and  a telegraph  office  J 
connected  with  the  house,  likewise  a boat  and  guide  build-  ! 
ing,  which  affords  accommodations  for  100  boats  and  guides. 
Tents,  blankets,  and  all  the  paraphernalia  required  in 
camp  life,  also  every  variety  of  the  choicest  supplies,  indu- 
ing numerous  delicacies  are  furnished  to  all  who  wish 
them. 

Closely  adjacent,  and  forming  a beaded  net  work  about 
the  Lower  St.  Regis,  are  15  or  20  exquisite  little  lakes 
and  ponds  with  their  inlets  and  outlets,  among  which,  as  so  j 
many  gems,  she  gleams  and  sparkles  as  the  chief  crown 
jewel. 

These  waters — mostly  tributaries  of  the  St.  Regis  R. — j 
may  all  be  visited  from  this  “ Wilderness  St.  James,”  on 
the  same  day,  and  embraced  in  the  list,  are  Osgood, 'Spit-  : 
fire,  U.  St.  Regis,  Big  Clear,  Little  Clear,  Bog,  Loon, 
Little  Duck,  Long,  Bear,  Turtle,  Little  Green,  Big  Green, 
St.  Regis,  Big  Long,  Ochre,  Fish,  Rock,  etc..  Lakes  and  ^ 
Ponds. 

Hence  we  can  hazard  nothing  in  saying  that  Paul  Smith’s 
as  a fishing  and  hunting  locality,  has  few  superiors  ; while 
as  a wild-wood  summer  retreat  it  has,  perhaps  no  peer  ; and 
that  taken  all  in  all,  it  is  as  winsome  a spot  as  ever  charm- 
ed a traveler’s  eye  or  gladdened  a sportsman’s  heart. 


descriptive  guide. 


105 


And  those  adventurously  inclined,  may  from  this  poim., 
with  boats  and  guides,  visit  the  principal  waters  that  begem 
this  romantic  region — the  Saranacs,  the  Tappers,  Long,, 
Forked,  Raquette,  Blue  Ml.  Lakes,  etc.  ; pass  up  or  down 
the  sinuous  courses  of  the  numerous  streams  with  which 
they  are  linked,  and  thus  enjoy  an  excursion  richly  abound- 
ing in  sylvan  delights,  over  routes  whose  aggregate  dis- 
tances would  amount  to  hundreds  of  miles,  without  being 
compelled  to  abandon  their  boats,  except  to  traverse  the 
short  portages  that  intervene.  But  we  are  passing  too 
hastily ; these  delightful  routes  should  be  taken  up  in 
detail  and  examined  more  leisurely  ; so  we  will  return  to 
the  St.  Regis  House. 

Lower  St.  Regis  Lake  has  many  features  of  beauty 
which  we  will  not  pause  to  describe.  Its  favorite  camp- 
ing  place  is  at  “ Peter’s  Rock,”  a rugged  ledge,  projecting 
boldly  from  the  mainland  into  the  lake  and  affording  an 
admirable  point  for  shore  fishing.  It  was  so  called  from 
the  famous  Indian  trapper,  Peter  Sabbattis,  who  frequently 
in  ancient  days  bivouacked  by  his  camp-fire,  upon  its 
sloping  sides.  Osgood  Pond  not  far  away,  N.,  as  well  as 
Jo'nes’  Pond  a short  distance  E.  of  that,  it  should  be  re- 
membered pay  tribute  to  Meacham  Lake. 

B^y  Pond,  renowned  for  its  many  charms,  is  visited  by 
passing  down  the  St.  Regis  River  to  Keese’s  Mills  (4  m, 
waters  of  Black  Pond  enter  here) ; and  “ drawing  ” from 
thence  8 m S.  W.;  or  by  following  the  river  to  the  head 
of  “ Sixteen  Mile  Level,”  (9  m from  Smith’s,)  and  carry- 
ing therefrom  2 m S.  As  its  name  signifies,  it  is  formed 
of  three  romantic  bays,  whose  names  and  proximate 
dimensions  are  as  follows  : South  Bay  (1  x |),  North  Bay 
(1  x i),  West  Bay  (f  x J). 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


to6 

Carry  from  Bay  Pond  i|  m.  S.  E.  ( blazed  line)  to 
reach  Cat  Pond  (£  x f),  a pleasant  sheet.  Nice  camping 
place  near  the  inlet,  by  a cold  spring. 

From  Cat  Pond  a good  portage  leads  2 m.S.  E to  Fish 
Pond  (i  x f),  another  handsome  water  and  affording  extra 
lake  trout  fishing.  This  pond  is  also  accessible  by  water 
(from  Paul  Smith’s)  via  St.  Regis  Lakes,  Spitfire,  St. 
Regis,  Ochre  Ponds,  &c.  (9  Carry  Route y pp.  109-110.) 

Access  is  gained  to  Cranberry  Pond  (f  x f ) by  boating 
down  the  outlet  from  Bay  Pond  2 m.  S.  W.  and  carrying 
thence  £ m.  N.  W.  Splendid  “ deering  ” in  this  vicinity. 

Passing  down  the  stream  if  m.  below  the  Cranberry 
carry,  we  reach  Cranberry  Rapids,  which  furnish  superior 
trouting.  (West  St.  Regis  River  ) 

Carrying  from  the  Cranberry  portage  3 m.  S.  W , East 
Pond  (1  x £)  is  reached  and  we  are  rewarded  by  the  very 
best  of  speckled  trout  fishing.  From  that  sheet  a blazed 
line  extends  3 m.  N.  E.  to  Cat  Pond  above  named. 

Carry  3!  m.  S.  E.  of  East  Pond  to  Big  Long  Pond. 
Portage  cut  out,  and  crosses  a spur  of  Long  P.  Mt. 

Carry  from  East  Pond  if  m.  S W.  to  Windfall  P.;  thence 
about  £ m.  S.  E.  to  Dry  Channel  P. ; thence  about  if  m.  S. 
E.  to  Big  Pine  P. ; thence  f m.  S.  E to  Floodwood  P. 

Little  or  W.  Pine  P.  lies  £ m.  W of  Big  or  E.  Pine  P., 
a sharp  ridge  separating  them.  This  empties  through 
“ Pond  with  a rock  in  it  ” into  Rollins  P.,  S.  W. 

Ledge  Pond  lies  if  or  2 m.  S.  of  East  Pond  ; and  from 
that  leads  a blazed  line  if  m.  S.  E.  to  Big  Pine  Pond. 

A trail  leads  from  Big  Long  Pond  W.  to  Windfall  Pond. 
The  outlet  of  this  pond  empties  into  McDonald  Pond 
stream  (N.  W.)  and  that  flows  into  the  West  St.  Regis 
River  f m.  farther  N. 

From  the  N.  W.  shore  of  Windfall  P.  a trail  leads  if 
m W.  to  Willis  P.,  passing  N.  of  the  “ Great  Windfall,” 
and  along  the  N.  shores  of  Blue  and  Mud  P.  (or  boat 
across  the  latter).  Thence  it  is  only  a few  r.  to  Willis  P. 
This  sheet,  from  its  shape  and  position,  is  well  adapted  for 
hunting.  Deer,  wolves  and  catamounts  thickly  abound 
in  the  vicinity  of  Willis,  McDonald,  Windfall,  &c.,  Ponds. 
It  is  a wild  and  romantic  region. 


GHAM  FALLS.  ST.  REGIS  LAKE— PAUL  SMITH’S. 


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DECRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


107 


Folingsby  Jr.  Pond, — 3 m.  by  road,  or  5 m.  by  river  N. 
W.  of  Keese’s  Mills — is  admired  for  its  beauty.  Good 
springs  afford  eligible  camping  locations  here. 

Following  a portage  1 m.  N.  W.  we  reach  Quebec  Pond 
near  Rice  Mt. 

Three-fourths  m.  N.  E.  of  Folingsby  Jr.  Pond  is  Mud  or 
Slush  Pond. 

From  Keese’s  Mills  it  is  1 m.  to  the  summit  of  Jenkins 
Mt.  View,  very  fine.  From  the  same  point  it  is  3 m.  (S.^ 
by  bridle  path  to  the  summit  of  St.  Regis  Mt. — the  route 
passing  by  the  two  Spectacle  Ponds,  m.  from  the  “Mills.” 
The  following  is  a better  route  : — Taking  boats  at  Paul 
Smith’s  we  pass  up  Lower  St.  Regis  Lake.  Spitfire  Pond 
and  Upper  St.  Regis  Lake.  Landing  on  the  W.  shore  of 
the  last  we  carry  10  r.  ; thence  cross  Upper  Spectacle 
Pond  and  pass  (r.)  down  its  outlet  3 or  4 r.  ; and  to  the 
foot  of  Lower  Spectacle  Pond.  (These  Ponds  flow  into  the 
St.  Regis  R.)  From  this  point  the  enterprising  “Pol”  has 
constructed  a bridle  path  4 ft.  in  width  to  the  top  of  the 
mountain,  a distance  of  2\  m.,  and  soon  he  intends  to  erect 
a sylvan  cot  near  the  summit  for  the  entertainment  of  par- 
ties desiring  to  remain  over  night. 

The  scenic  attractions  unfolded  at  the  crest  are  varied 
and  sublime.  The  eye  traverses  a circuit  of  vast  extent, 
and  with  the  aid  of  a glass,  the  gleaming  silver  of  half  a 
hundred  lakes  and  ponds  is  brought  into  charming  display. 
The  billowy  expanse  of  a forest-ocean — one  solid  mass 
of  boundless  green,  deeply  furrowed  by  a countless  multi- 
tude of  proud-peaked  shapes,  sweeps  away  in  majestic 
beauty  until  lost  in  the  distant  horizon. 


io8 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


From  Paul  Smith’s  to  Hough’s,  at  head  of  Upper  Sar- 
anac Lake,  there  are  two  modes  of  access  ; one  by  carriage 
over  a good  road  for  a distance  of  17  m,  and  the  other 
with  boats  by  the  following  routes  : Lower  St.  Regis  Lake 
;2m;  Spitfire  Pond  (very  pretty)  1 m ; Upper  St.  Regis  j 
Lake  (2  x £ ),  also  beautiful,  with  its  picturesque  Birch,  J 
Averill,  One-tree  and  JBurnt  Islands.  These  waters  are 
linked  together  by  short  inlets  or  narrows.  Here  a choice  --i 
of  two  routes  is  presented  : the  one  via  Big  Clear  Pond,  I 
and  the  other  via  St.  Regis  Pond,  the  “ Chain,”  and  Little  j 
Clear  Ponds,  etc. 

(1.)  The  portage  (i-|  m)  to  Big  Clear  Pond,  is  called  the 
“ St.  Germain  Carry,”  and  horses,  for  the  convenience  of 
parties  passing  over  it,  are  kept  here  by  an  old  pioneer 
half-breed  (St.  Germain)  whose  hut  stands  on  the  shore  of 
the  pond.  Travelers,  while  pausing  at  his  place,  will  be  »1 
interested  in  the  variety  of  dogs  and  tame  deer  kept  by  ; 
the  aged  hunter. 

The  waters  of  this  sheet  are  of  crystalline  purity  and 
exceedingly  cold.  Its  shores  are  bold  and  rocky  and  the  0 
scenery  encompassing  it  of  considerable  interest.  Its  shape  1 
is  nearly  circular  (2  ><:  2).  A trail  extends  from  the  W.  I 
side  to  Little  Clear  ,Pond,  about  2 m,  S.  W.  Crossing  J 
Big  Clear  Pond,  the  route  lies  thence  down  its  crooked  1 
outlet,  S.,  4 m to  U.  Saranac  Lake,  with  a portage  at  the  1 
commencement  of  less  than.  £ m around  a dam  and  rapids.  1 
The  stream  is  well  cleared  of  obstructions  and  easily  1 
navigated.  Thence  a portion  of  the  head  of  the  Lake  | 
(i£  m)  is  crossed  to  reach  Hough’s.  Teams  also  carry  J 
from  Big  Clear  P.  to  Hough’s,  in  a more  direct  line.  Dis-  J 
tar.ce  3 m. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


IO9 


(2.)  From  S.  W.  shore  of  U.  St.  Regis  Lake,  carry  6 r 
S.  W.  to  Bog  Pond  (10  acres),  interesting  only  as  a deer 
resort;  thence  5 r over  “Paul  Smith’s  plank  walk,”  to 
Bear  Pond  (40  acres),  with  2 islands,  and  charming  sur- 
roundings ; thence  4 r to  Turtle  or  Middle  pond  (10 
acres)  ; thence  40  r to  Little  Long  Pond  (200  acres)  ; 
thence  50  r to  Little  Green  Pond  (30  acres) ; “one  of  the 
clearest  gems  that  spangle  the  Wilderness thence 
1 5 r to  St.  Regis  Pond.  (Good  camp  here). 

“ These  little  bodies  of  water,”  says  Dr.  Bixby,  “ are 
evidently  fed  by  springs,  their  waters  being  perfectly  fresh 
and  pure.  They  have  no  visible  connection  with  each 
other,  but  it  is  thought  that  they  must  be  connected  by 
subterranean  streams.  This  is  a beautiful  region  and  but 
little  known.  There  are  doubtless  numerous  other  ponds  in 
this  vicinity  which  have  never  been  explored.”  “St.  Regis 
Pond,  covering  about  1,000  acres,  is  a magnificent  moun- 
tain circled  sheet,  interspersed  with  numerous  forest  cover- 
ed islands,  and  is  as  wild  as  when  the  tawny  Indian  rippled 
its  surface  in  his  bark  canoe.  The  St.  Regis  Mountain  to 
the  N.,  heaves  his  dark  hulk  in  the  air,  and  numberless 
other  peaks,  frown  down  upon  its  waters.” — [Haviland. 

Crossing  this,  we  carry  S.  \ m,  to  Little  Clear  Pond, 
another  exquisite  lakelet,  hemmed  in  by  mountainous 
elevations,  with  waters  of  crystal  colorness  ; from  thence 
ii  m S.  to  Big  Green  Pond  (£  * i)  ; thence  50  r S.  W.  to 
Spring  Pond,  and  thence  pass  down  the  short  outlet  to  U. 
Saranac  Lake. 

This  is  called  the  route  of  the  “ Nine  Carries.”  With 
light  baggage  and  experienced  guides,  the  trip  over  it  can 
be  made  in  about  4 hours. 

Distance  from  Paul  Smith’s  to  Hough’s,  by  either  route, 
10  to  15  m. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


I 10 

The  journal  of  one  of  a party  of  enterprising  sports- 
men,  who  in  the  year  1869  descended  the  West  Branch  of 
the  St.  Regis  River,  and  thus  opened  to  the  public  the 
mysteries  of  that  hitherto  unexplored  stream,  has  been 
kindly  furnished  us  by  its  very  intelligent  author,  Dr. 
Geo.  F.  Bixby,  of  Plattsburg,  N,  Y.  A beautiful  panoramic 
map,  drawn  from  the  rough  notes  of  this  gentleman, 
and  which  reflects  great  credit  upon  its  artist,  Mr.  H.  K. 
Averell,  Jr.  accompanies  this  manuscript.  Dr.  Bixby  and 
his  fellow  travelers  in  this  expedition,  are  entitled  to  the 
gratitude  of  sporting  men,  for  presenting  to  them  this  in- 
teresting record. 

“ Pursuing  our  way  through  St.  Regis  Pond,  we  enter 
its  outlet  (W.),  and  a passage  of  1 m takes  us  into  Ochre 
Pond  (60  acres),  so  named  in  consequence  of  plentiful  indi 
cations  of  fine  ochre  beds  in  the  vicinity. 

“ From  thence  we  pass  through  another  stream  two  miles 
in  length  to  Fish  Pond,  75  acres,  and  from  this  into  a small 
pond  closely  adjoining,  of  about  5 acres,  at  the  head  of 
which — whe:  e its  inlet  ripples  over  the  stones — shade  of 
Issarc  Walton,  what  fishing  ! 

“ But  never  mind  that.  Let  us  push  on  down  the  West 
Branch  of  the  St.  Regis,  for  we  are  fairly  afloat  or  aground 
upon  that  stream  now,  going  in  a north-easterly  direction. 
And  here  we  begin  to  find  the  barriers  which  nature  has 
interposed  against  the  inroads  of  the  tourist  and  fancy 
sportsman  ; barriers  which  will  never  be  removed  except 
by  the  ax  of  lumbermen,  which,  alas,  will  too  soon  be  at 
work  here  also.  From  the  outlet  of  Fish  Pond  to  the 
point  where  this  stream  intersects  with  the  outlet  of  Bay 
Pond — a distance  of  perhaps  15  m — there  is  a region 
which  I will  guarantee  has  never  been  trodden  or  navi- 
gated to  any  great  extent  by  pleasure  seekers ! Guides 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  1 1 I 

cannot  be  hired  at  any  price  to  traverse  it.  St.  Regis 
sportsmen  avoid  this  portion  of  the  river  by  going  from 
Paul  Smith’s  over  a carry  of  8 m to  Bay  Pond,  and  thence 
down  its  outlet,  striking  the  main  river  below  this — what 
our  guide  called  a perfect  ‘ Podgam,’  whatever  that  may 
be.  For  miles  and  miles  we  were  obliged  to  drag  our 
boats  over  stones,  under,  over,  through  and  around  logs, 
alders  and  brush  heaps  ; we  lifted  them  over  almost  insur- 
mountable places,  ‘ shot  ’ them  through  rapids  and  made 
them  do  all  sorts  of  preposterous  things  in  a style  which 
would  cause  any  one  but  a thorough  backwoodsman  to 
stand  aghast.  Once  we  run  our  best  boat  upon  a sharp 
rock,  knocking  a hole  into  the  bottom  through  which  the 
water  rushed  like  a torrent.  ‘ Then  we  three  pilgrims,’ 
made  up  our  minds  that  we  were  lost  and  wished  ourselves 
on  the  timber  road,  which  Dick  had  taken  when  he  left 
us,  but  our  guide  was  prepared  for  just  such  an  emer- 
gency— producing  a piece  of  tin,  tacks  and  spruce  gum, 
he  soon  made  the  boat  good  as  new,  and  we  went  on  our 
way  rejoicing.  Here  we  passed  a resting  place  of  cranes, 
who  never  inhabit  any  but  the  most  undisturbed  and  in- 
accessible retreats.  We  counted  io  new  nests  upon  one 
tree,  and  probably  there  were  ioo  of  them  upon  J an  acre 
of  ground.  We  also,  much  to  our  surprise,  came  upon  a 
colony  of  beavers,  which,  as  we  subsequently  learned,  was 
the  only  one  in  the  State  of  any  size.  We  counted  nine 
dams  in  a space  of  3 m,  some  of  them  very  old,  but  three 
or  four  exhibiting  abundant  fresh  signs  of  a numerous 
colony.  Large  tracts  of  ground  had  been  almost  entirely 
cleared  by  these  industrious  animals,  within  a short  space 
of  time,  the  stumps  of  some  of  the  trees  being  over  eight 
inches  in  diameter.  One  fresh  dam  set  back  over  J of  a 
mile  and  had  a fall  of  2J  feet.  Here  the  trout  ran  in  shoals, 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


1 12 

and  I verily  believe  a man  could  catch  a barrel  of  them  in 
a day,  if  his  powers  of  endurance  were  sufficient. 

“And  now  John  took  occasion  to  give  us  a practical 
illustration  of  his  ideas  concerning  the  proper  mode  of 
trout  fishing.  Cutting  a long  green  pole,  about  as  heavy 
as  he  could  comfortably  swing,  he  rigged  a small  hawser 
to  it,  baited  his  hook  with  a pork  rirtd,  and  ‘ went  in.’ 

“Those  trout  would  ‘ bite  ’ anything,  and  no  sooner  did 
one  take  hold  than  John  would  give  a mighty  ‘ twitch,’ 
taking  the  astonished  trout  out  with  a 'swish’  and  land- 
ing him  many  rods  away  into  the  woods. 

“ Down  we  went  past  Bay  Pond  outlet  ; a magnificent 
river  we  were  upon  now — plenty  of  water,  but  still  occa- 
sionally a log  or  two  to  haul  the  boats  over — very  tortu- 
ous our  course  was,  going  upon  an  average  4 m to  pro- 
gress one,  and  each  turn  disclosing  a new  scene  of  beauty. 

“ Plenty  of  fresh  signs  of  deer  now,  miles  of  marsh  so 
trodden  up  by  them  that  you  would  think  a hundred  or 
two  of  sheep  had  been  turned  loose  there. 

“ Here  one  plunges  into  and  crosses  the  river  just  in 
front  of  the  boat,  and  there  stands  another  peering 
curiously  out  at  us  through  the  alders. 

“ Now  we  come  to  Little  Falls,  near  the  St.  Lawrence 
County  line,  a splendid  cascade,  falling  1 5 or  20  ft.  in  10  r ; 
around  this  we  ‘ carry,  ’ which  brings  us  to  the  ‘ Eight 
Mile  Stillwater.”  Then  3 m of  rapids  down  which  the 
boats  had  to  be  ‘ tailed,’  a man  wading  and  keeping  fast 
hold  of  a rope  attached  to  the  stern  ; one  false  step  and 
away  would  have  gone  boat  and  baggage. 

“ Next  we  came  to  the  ‘ Five  Mile  Stillwater,’  then 
more  falls  around  which  was  a carry  of  40  r,  next  1 m 
of  ugly  rapids,  another  fall  with  carry  of  15  r,  after 
which  5 m of  good  smooth  rowing  took  us  to  an  old 


DESCRIPTIVE  guide.  1 13 

saw  mill  7 m above  Parishville,*  and  our  “ grand  tour  ” 
was  closed. 

“ We  had  camped  for  nine  successive  nights,  traveling 
over  a distance  of  not  less  than  125  m with  the  boat,  and 
from  St.  Regis  Pond,  through  the  primeval  forest  of  the 
most  magnificent  pines  that  ever  grew,  which  the  ax  has 
never  touched. 

“ Very  soon,  however,  a dam  will  be  built  at  the  out- 
let of  St.  Regis  Pond,  that  mighty  feeder  of  this  wild 
stream  ; the  alders  which  now  so  beautifully  fringe  its 
banks  will  be  cut,  the  flood  wood  cast  loose,  the  rocks 
blasted,  the  pines  laid  low,  the  flood  gates  above  will  be 
opened,  and  all  the  barriers,  together  with  all  these  wild 
beauties  will  be  swept  away  forever.” — [Dr.  G.  F.  Bixby. 

Bloomingdale,  it  will  be  noticed,  is  a prominent  point  on 
several  converging  avenues  to  the  Adirondacks.  To 
this  place  travelers  starting  from  Plattsburg  and  Port 
Kent,  en  route  for  Paul  Smith’s,  Hough’s,  Baker’s,  Blood’s 
and  Martin’s,  generally  pay  tribute.  Upon  some  days 
15  or  20  stages  arrive  here  on  their  way  to  these  different 
sporting  establishments,  with  which  it  is  connected  by 
splendid  carriage  roads.  Few  villages  bear  a more  appro- 
priate name.  It  is  literally  a “blooming  dale.” 

It  is  beautifully  located  near  the  forest,  among  hills, 
mountains,  lakes  and  rivers,  and  within  a few  miles  and  in 
plain  sight  of  Whiteface  Mountain.  The  sporting  near 
and  around  Bloomingdale  is  not  often  excelled.  Within 
about  2 m of  the  village  is  Moore  Pond  (i^xf),  which 
abounds  in  both  lake  and  speckled  trout.  One  m from 
that  is  a small  sheet  called  Grass  Pond,  charmingly  situa- 
ted and  also  liberally  supplied  with  trout.  The  Saranac 
River  passes  within  f m of  the  village  and  affords  the 


•It  is  9 m from  Parishville  to  Potsdam,  over  an  excellent  road. 

7 


1 14 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


best  of  fishing,  and  the  same  may  be  said  of  3 or  4 little 
brooks  flowing  through  or  near  the  place. 

The  drives  in  the  neighborhood  are  varied  and  delight- 
ful, offering  rich  displays  of  landscape  loveliness. 

Taken  altogether  it  is  a charming  resort  for  those  wish- 
ing to  spend  a few  days  of  rural  life  within  the  precincts  of 
the  Adirondacks. 

An  elegant  and  commodious  hotel,  replete  with  every 
requisite  convenience,  with  barber-shop  and  billiard  room 
attached,  and  capable  of  entertaining  100  guests,  will 
be  completed  and  opened  for  business,  July  1st,  by  Messrs. 
Skiff  & Perrigo. 

Mail  and  telegraph  facilities  perfect — horses,  carriages, 
boats  and  guides  furnished  to  order. — [J.  H.  Titus. 

From  Bloomingdale  to  Baker’s  it  is  6 m ; Blood’s,  1 m ; 
Martin’s,  I m.  The  road,  commencing  as  far  back  as 
Franklin  Falls,  lies  along  the  stately  Saranac  R.,  which  is 
almost  constantly  in  view,  thus  rendering  the  scenery  very 
interesting  to  the  tourist. 

Milote  Baker  is  the  veteran  hotel  and  store-keeper  of 
this  section.  His  home-like  house  presents  an  inviting 
appearance  from  its  pleasant  situation.  Everything  that 
sportsmen  require  is  kept  continually  on  hand.  This  is  also 
true  of  “ Blood’s,”  at  the  little  hamlet  of  Harrietstown. 

“ Martin’s,”  one  of  the  far-famed  gateways  to  the  Wil- 
derness, is  a most  desirable  tarrying  place  for  all  in  quest 
of  health  or  sporting  recreation.  The  house  has  recently 
been  greatly  enlarged  and  now  affords  apartments  for  250 
guests.  The  parlors  are  64  ft.  and  the  dining  hall  84  ft. 
in  length.  The  rooms  are  generally  large  and  airy,  and 
are  furnished  with  taste  and  neatness,  and  while  occupy- 
ing them  one  may  enjoy  most  of  the  comforts  of  the  “St. 
Nicholas”  or  “Fifth  Avenue,”  together  with  all  the  rare 


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DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


and  dainty  viands  the  region  yields,  and  at  the  same  time 
command  an  exquisite  view  of  the  varied  beauties  that 
lake,  mountain  and  forest  ever  give. 

For  the  interest  of  ladies  we  will  say  that  the  fine  croquet 
ground  connected  with  the  premises  will  afford  them 
agreeable  diversion  when  , weary  of  boating.  Stages 
arrive  and  depart  daily  and  tri-weekly  for  Paul  Smith’s, 
Hough’s,  Point  of  Rocks,  North  Elba,  Wilmington  Notch, 
Keene,  Elizabethtown  and  Westport,  and  mail  and  tele- 
graphic communications  are  complete.  Parties,  including 
a goodly  sprinkling  of  ladies,  assemble  here  in  large  num- 
bers during  the  summer  months,  some  of  whom  make  this 
their  headquarters,  while  others  proceed  to  Bartlett’s, 
Corey’s,  Hough’s,  Dugett’s,  Kellogg’s,  Cary’s,  Moody’s 
and  Graves’s,  or  to  camp  on  some  of  the  many  delightful 
lakes  or  ponds  that  form  a vast  net-work  in  this  romantic 
Wilderness.  Martin  furnishes  the  sportsman  with  a com- 
plete outfit,  comprising  boats,  guides,  tents,  and  all  the 
requisites  of  camp  life  ; as  do  also  all  the  hotels  above 
noted. 

Some  22  or  23  years  ago  Mr.  Martin  located  here  at 
the  head  of  this  charming  bay.  The  spot  at  that  time 
was  entirely  wild,  but  he  has  lived  to  see  the  forest  imme- 
diately around  him  “ blossom  like  the  rose.”  He  is  a 
thorough  sportsman  as  well  as  landlord,  and  can  throw  a 
fly  or  secure  a deer  with  a skill  equal  to  that  of  the  most 
finished  disciple  of  Isaac  Walton,  or  the  fabled  Nimrod. 
P.  O.  address  is  “ Wm.  F.  Martin,  Saranac  Lake,  Frank- 
lin County,  N.  Y.” 

There  is  a little  settlement  here  which  includes  the  fam- 
ily of  the  well-known  guide,  Stephen  C.  Martin,  the  hero 
of  the  amusing  deer  adventure,  given  in  Mr.  Murray’s 
fascinating  work  on  the  Adirondack  s. 


ti6 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


The  following  are  the  distances  from  Martin’s  to 
various  points  of  interest  : 

$1ILES. 

To  Blood’s,  - --  --  --  --  --  --  - i 

Baker’s,  - --  --  - 2 

Bloomingdale,  - 8 

Hough’s  (direct  route),  - --  --  --  - 1 6 
Hough’s  (by  water),  - --  --  --  --  - 20J 

Paul  Smith’s  (direct  route),  - --  --  --14 

Ausable  Forks,  - - - - - - - - - - 34 

Point  of  Rocks,  -----------  3 7 

Keeseville,  - --  --  --  --  --  --  ^6 

Port  Kent,  - --  --  --  --  --  -51 

Plattsburg,  -------------  5 7 

North  Elba,  - --  --  --  --  --  -10 

Nash’s  & Brewster’s,  Lake  Placid,  - - - - - 12 

Scott’s,  - - --  --  --  --  --  -13 

Mt.  Marcy,  - ----------  r 34 

Indian  Pass,  - --  --  --  --  --  -23 

Keene,  (old  road),  - - - - 23 

Keene,  (new  road),  - --  --  --  --  -25 
Elizabethtown,  - - - --  --  --  --  35 

Westport,  - --  --  --  --  --  --43 

Wilmington  Notch,  ----------  1 6 

Wilmington  and  Whiteface  Mountain,  - - - 22 

Bartlett’s,  -------------  12 

Lower  Saranac  Lake  is  6 m in  length  with  an  average 
width  of  2 m.  As  the  tourist  threads  his  way  among  the 
numerous  rocky  islands,  (upward  of  50  in  all)  and  past  its 
many  striking  points  and  jagged  headlands,  the  massive 
bulwarks  of  the  Adirondacks,  including  Marcy,  Seward, 
McIntyre  and  many  “ lesser  lights  ” to  the  S E.,  the 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  j l1/ 

Tupper  Lake  Mountains  in  the  S.  W.  frequently  in  view, 
he  cannot  fail  to  admit  that  this  sheet  of  water  possesses 
many  picturesque  attractions.  But  the  comeliness  of  the 
landscape  is  sadly  marred  by  the  ravages  of  the  many 
extensive  fires,  that  have  swept  through  the  forests  in  this 
vicinity.  It  is  said  that  the  echo  of  one’s  shout,  at  some 
points  on  this  lake,  repeats  itself  20  times,  distinctly 
enough  to  be  counted.  On  the  W.  side,  near  the  foot, 
there  is  a curious  rocky  promontory  jutting  abruptly  out 
into  the  lake,  called  “The  Hedgehog,”  from  the  elevated 
summit  of  which  a grand  prospect  of  the  most  fascinating 
scenery  is  enjoyed. 

There  are  many  interesting  places  of  resort  within  easy 
reach  of  Martin’s,  to  which  we  will  introduce  the  sporting 
traveler.  Colby  Pond,  a lovely  lakelet  (i^  x -f),  N.  of  the 
Saranac  Lake,  is  reached  by  following  the  wagon  road 
leading  (1)  from  the  hotel  2 m,  or  by  paddling  across  the 
bay  and  passing  over  the  good  pafh,  -J  m,  starting  from 
the  shore.  H.  C.  Avery  lives  near  the  head  of  this  pond, 
upon  a small  clearing.  Macauley  Pond  is  connected  with 
“ Colby  ” by  a carry  of  2 m W.  ; length  j m.  This  sheet 
is  the  frequent  rendezvous  of  deer.  Martin  claims  he 
once  saw  19  there  at  once. 

McKensie’s  Pond  ( i j x f)  is  reached  by  a good  path  ex- 
tending from  Baker’s  2 m S.  W.  Near  the  commence- 
ment of  this  portage  is  the  home  of  Harvey  Moody, 
Street’s  famous  guide.  The  old  veteran  (age  63)  is  hardy 
and  hearty,  and  still  acts  as  an  occasional  guide.  He  con- 
tinues to  believe  the  “ U.  Sa’nac  is  the  handsomest  of  all 
the  lakes.”  We  are  indebted  to  his  courtesy  for  reliable 
information  respecting  the  woods. 

Ray  Brook,  a branch  of  the  Saranac  R.,  is  visited  via 
Blood’s  and  Moody’s,  also  by  descending  the  river  from 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


I 1 8 

the  lake.  It  is  full  of  trout,  and  when  water,  wind  ana 
season  are  favorable,  a skillful  fisherman  may  capture  his 
“ pound  a minute  until  he  has  his  backload.”  Lonesome 
Pond  (ij  x -J),  which  Martin  pronounces  “ the  most  beauti- 
ful of  all  waters,”  is  visited  by  boating  up  the  lake  2 m, 
landing  on  E.  shore  at  head  of  Lonesome  Pond  Bay,  and 
following  a path  J m E.  Access  is  gained  to  Pine  Pond, 
another  pretty  body  of  water,  by  proceeding  with  boats  up 
the  lake  2 m beyond  Lonesome  Pond  Bay,  down  the 
outlet  (Saranac  R.)  3 m and  carrying  (r)  1 m.  Good  port- 
age. 

To  visit  Ampersand  Pond,  one  of  the  most  sequestered 
as  well  as  most  lovely  of  all  the  Wilderness  sheets,  push 
the  boat  up  the  shallow  Cold  Brook,  a most  famous  trout 
stream  (which  enters  the  Saranac  R.,  r,  about  3 m below 
the  lake  and  near  the  river  end  of  the  portage  to  Pine  Pond), 
t m ; and  then  carry  (r)  S.  W.  across  a most  difficult  por- 
tage of  5 m leading  over  a spur  of  Ampersand  Mountain. 
A good  cabin  stands  near  the  shore  at  the  termination  of , 
the  carry,  which  is  the  celebrated  “ Philosopher’s  Camp,” 
constructed  at  an  expense  of  great  hardship,  by  Wm.  F. 
Martin,  for  Agassiz  and  his  companions,  Holmes  and 
Lowell,  a number  of  years  ago.  Ampersand  Pond  is  also 
reached  by  a 5 m trail  leading  from  Round  Lake.  And 
here,  completely  embosomed  in  the  forest,  where  the  ax 
of  the  woodman  has  never  been  heard,  at  the  feet  of 
mountain  peaks  that  guard  it  on  every  side  as  faithful 
sentinels,  reposes  this  sheet,  most  lonely  in  its  isolation, 
most  bewitching  in  its  loveliness.  So  far  is  it  removed 
from  the  usual  routes,  and  so  very  toilsome  is  the  task  cf 
its  examination,  that  the  deer  that  frequent  its  solitudes 
and  the  trout  that  swarm  in  its  waters  are  not  often 
annoyed  by  the  approach  of  the  sportsman. 


Descriptive  guide.  1 19 

Route  from  Martin's  to  Upper  Saranac , Long , Raquette , 

Tuppery  &c.,  Lakes : 

Traversing  the  length  of  L.  Saranac  Lake,  pausing  near 
the  head  on  the  1 to  quench  our  thirst,  perchance  to  take 
our  lunch  at  “Jacob’s  Well,”  an  ice-cold  spring,  whose 
waters  come  bubbling  up  from  beneath  a moss-covered 
rock — a most  romantic  spot — a precipitous,  rocky  bluff 
near  it  frowning  down  upon  us,  reminding  us  of  “ Rogers’ 
Slide,”  on  Lake  George,  we  pass  up  the  Saranac  River  3 
m to  Round  Lake.  Midway  of  the  two  lakes  are  short 
rapids,  where  the  river  falls  about  10  ft  within  10  r. 

Guides  usually  “ shoot  ” these  rapids  when  coming 
down  the  stream,  and  tow  their  boats  when  ascending  it, 
leaping  from  rock  to  rock ; but  those  cautiously  inclined 
prefer  to  carry  (15  r)  around  them. 

Round  or  Middle  Saranac  Lake  is  some  8 m in  circum- 
ference, and  is  also  an  attractive  sheet,  surrounded  by  an 
amphitheatre  of  hills  and  mountains,  including  Ampersand, 
and  is  decked  with  several  handsome  islands.  Here  again 
our  eyes  are  charmed  by  a distant  view  of  the  “ Adiron- 
dack glories.”  A tree  whose  foliage  assumes  the  form  of 
an  umbrella,  furnishes  the  name  for  “ Umbrella  Point.” 
For  some  unknown  reason  not  yet  discovered,  Round 
Lake  is  an  easily-agitated  and  dangerous  water.  The  breeze 
that  merely  ripples  other  lakes,  produces  huge  waves  in 
this.  Crossing  this  sheet  and  passing  up  the  Saranac 
River  again,  \ m,  (a  gigantic  boulder  marking  the  point 
of  entrance,)  we  arrive  at  Bartlett’s  Clearing  and  “ Sports- 
man’s Home.”  * 


120 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


This  popular  hostelry  has  long  been  favorably  known 
to  the  sporting  and  traveling  community.  If  is  situated 
immediately  below  the  rapids,  on  the  outlet  of  Upper 
Saranac  Lake  and  on  the  most  direct  route  into  the 
Wilderness  by  the  Saranac  waters.  Just  in  front  of  the 
house  is  the  landing,  from  which  boats  and  baggage  are 
carried  by  Bartlett’s  team,  ioo  rods,  to  the  Upper  Lake, 
(price  for  transportation,  50  cents  per  load,)  and  the  sit- 
uation is  always  animate  with  life  from  the  passing  of 
parties  in  and  out  of  the  woods.  It  is  also  a convenient 
and  eligible  place  to  obtain  an  outfit  for  camping  expe- 
ditions. The  house  will  accommodate  about  60  persons, 
and  is  well  patronized — especially,  by  tourists  from  Bos- 
ton, New  York  and  Philadelphia.  As  Bartlett  is  one  of 
the  pioneers  of  the  Wilderness,  many  old  “ Adiron- 
dackers  ” have  long  made  this  place  their  headquarters. 
Some  of  these  have  here  paid  annual  court  for  25  or  30 
seasons.  Although  not  really  situated  on  a lake  or  large 
body  of  water,  there  are  many  things  which  lend  an 
interest  to  this  locality.  The  Saranac  R.  runs  directly 
in  front  of  the  house,  and  the  murmur  of  its  rapids  is 
constantly  heard.  Here  is  a farm  clearing,  with  a num- 
ber of  rustic  buildings  suited  to  the  wants  of  the  interior 
life  of  the  woods.  The  farm  is  skirted  by  forests  which 
form  its  enclosure.  Hills,  with  rich  hardwood  foliage, 
rise  in  the  near  distance,  and  beyond  these,  mountains 
clothed  with  dark  evergreens  complete  the  horizon.  From 
the  summit  of  a moderate  elevation  in  the  rear  of  the  house 
an  impressive  picture  is  enjoyed  of  Round  Lake  and  the 
Adirondack  Mts.  But  the  great  event  among  excur- 
sions from  this  point  is  the  ascent  of  Ampersand  Mt., 
without  which  a tour  of  the  Saranac  Lakes  would  be  in- 
complete. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


121 


By  30  minutes  boating  down  the  river  and  through 
Round  Lake  a good  trail  is  reached  which  leads  to  the 
top  of  the  mountain.  The  opening  of  this  route — a 
most  difficult  matter — is  solely  due  to  the  efforts  and  en- 
terprise of  Dr.  W.  W.  Ely,  of  Rochester,  for  which  he  is 
entitled  to  every  praise.  The  path  starts  from  the  lower 
sand  beach  (S.  E.  side  of  the  lake)  near  where  the  old 
carry  to  Ampersand  P.  begins.  It  soon  merges  into  an  old 
lumber  road  which  is  followed  for  half  a mile.  A barked 
tree  at  the  1.  indicates  where  we  diverge  from  this  road.* 
The  ascent  is  usually  accomplished  in  about  4 hours  and  no 
great  discomfort  is  connected  with  the  journey  ; and  the 
spectacle  that  awaits  us  at  the  summit  is  rich  reward  for 
double  the  toil.  All  around  is  spread  a magnificent 
prospect. 

Immediately  below,  on  either  side,  lie  Round  Lake 
and  Ampersand  Pond  — gems  of  beauty  bathing  the 
mountain’s  base.  Rising  from  the  opposite  shore  of  the 
pond,  with  savage  sides  and  castellated  crown,  is  Mt. 
Seward,  attended  by  its  rugged  compeer,  Ragged  Mt. 
Farther  away — many  of  them  in  the  blue  distance — at 
the  E.  and  S.  E.,  are  Pitch-Off,  Edmond’s  Pond,  Mc- 
Intyre, (concealing  Marcy,)  Gray  & Dix’s  Peak,  Nipple 
Top,  Slide,  Santanoni,  and  countless  other  majestic 
mountains.  In  the  S.  and  S.  W.  the  entire  length  of 
Long  Lake  (13^  m.)  is  revealed,  and  Blue  Mt.,  Owl’s 

*And  if  you  would  avoid  trouble,  dear  reader,  accept  our  advice  and  do  not 
follow  the  latter  beyond  this  point,  as  we  unwisely  did  two  years  ago — it  looked 
so  very  inviting.  But  it  lead  us  into  difficulty  as  it  soon  came  to  an  end  near 
the  base  of  the  huge  mass  we  were  to  scale  ; and  rather  than  to  retrace  our 
steps,  we  addressed  ourselves  to  the  Herculean  task  of  scaling  the  precipitous 
walls  before  us,  thereby  enjoying  (?)  a rough  and  tumble  scramble  we  have  no 
desire  to  repeat.  Peak  after  peak  we  surmounted,  and  gorge  after  gorge  we 
encountered,  always  to  find,  until  the  very  last,  the  true  summit  towering  fat 
away.  Noj  follow  the  “straight  and  narrow  path,  and  not  the  broad  road.” 


1 22  DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 

Head,  Mt.  Morris  and  other  less  lofty  pinnacles  disclose 
their  imposing  forms.  In  the  S.  W.  and  W.  and  N.  W., 
Big  and  Little  Tupper  Lakes,  Raquette  River,  Simond’s, 
Raquette,  Big  Wolf,  Rollins,  Floodwood,  Big  Square, 
Fish  Creek,  Folingsby’s  Clear,  Hoel,  St.  Regis  and  Spit- 
fire Ponds,  U.  St.  Regis,  Upper  and  Lower  Saranac 
Lakes  (with  their  fairy  islands,)  the  Weller  Ponds  and 
many  sparkling  waters  besides,  with  their  numerous 
tributaries — nearly  fifty  lakes,  ponds  and  streams  in  all — 
display  their  glistening  silver  on  a bed  of  boundless  green. 
Westerly  and  northward,  Blue  Mt.  of  Raquette  R.,  Long 
Pond  Mt.  and  Lion  Mt.  loom  up  grandly  against  the  sky. 
To  the  N.  and  N.  E.  the  beautiful  valley  of  the  Saranac 
stretches  onward  until  absorbed  by  the  valley  of  Lake 
Champlain,  upwards  of  50  m.  away,  and  faintly  discern- 
ible are  the  glimmering  peaks  of  Vermont,  and  less  re- 
mote the  massive  Adirondack  battlements  of  Ames, 
McKensie  Pond,  Roger’s  Brook,  Saddle-back  and 
Whiteface. 

Well  may  Ampersand  Mt.  be  pronounced  the  Rigi 
of  America.  A picture  of  grandeur  and  loveliness  more 
enchanting  than  that  unfolded  at  its  summit  was  never 
conceived  in  a poet’s  dream  ; and  it  is  while  surveying 
such  a scene  that  we  completely  realize  what  a wealth 
of  beauty  and  sublimity  Nature  has  lavished  upon  this 
wild  and  wonderful  region.  A clearing  has  been  made 
on  the  mountain-top,  (subsequently  enlarged  by  the 
State  Survey,)  and  a substantial  log  and  bark  shanty, 
constructed  by  Dr.  Ely’s  party,  assisted  by  Dr.  Read,  of 
Boston.  This  mountain  is  ascended  without  deviating 
from  the  regular  route  through  the  Saranac  waters,  and 
no  one  can  regret  that  a brief  pause  was  made  in  the 
journey  to  enjoy  the  delicious  treat  the  view  affords. 


SARANAC  LAKE— MARTIN’S  HOTEL.  SARANAC  RIVER— BARTLETT’S  HOTEL. 


— 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


123 


Upper  Saranac,  the  “Queen  Lake”  of  the  Saranac 
group,  is  about  8 m.  in  length  by  2 to  ,3  in  width. 

From  this  lake  there  are  four  different  methods  of 
approach  to  the  Tupper  waters,  two  of  which  are  easy 
and  pleasant,  the  remaining  two  difficult  but  exceedingly 
romantic. 

(1.)  Cross  the  foot  of  the  lake  (1^  m.)  to  Coreys, 
thence  pass 

Over  Indian  Carry,  -----  1 mile. 

Over  Spectacle  Ponds,  - - - - 2 “ 

Down  Stony  Creek  to  Raquette  River,  - 3 “ 

Down  Raquette  River  to  Big  Tupper  Lake,  2o|  “ 

(Up  Raquette  River  to  Long  Lake  it  is  13^  m.) 

(See  route  from  Raquette  Lake  to  Forked , Long  and 
Tupper  Lakes,— pp.  205,  207,  208  and  214.) 

Jesse  Corey’s  “ Rustic  Lodge  ” is  pleasantly  located 
and  enjoys  a delightful  prospect  of  the  broad  expanse  of 
this  charming  lake.  Corey  is  a time-honored  guide  and 
is  thoroughly  familiar  with  everything  pertaining  to 
woodland  life  and  scenery.  His  table  is  famed  for  its 
excellence  throughout  the  region. 

The  celebrated  Indian  Carry  is  a smooth  road  over  a 
level  belt  of  cleared  land.  At  the  other  extremity  of 
this  portage,  on  a gentle  elevation  near  the  first  of  the 
Spectacle  Ponds,  delightfully  overlooking  its  waters, 
Dukett  & Farmer’s  new  hotel  is  situated.  The  well- 
known  guide,  Clark  Farmer,  is  one  of  the  proprietors, 
and  this  is  sufficient  guaranty  that  guests  will  be  accept- 
ably provided  for.  In  this  vicinity,  one  hundred  years 
ago,  the  Saranac  Indians  had  their  dwelling  place,  and 
on  an  eminence  not  far  from  the  hotel  is  a mound- 


124 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


like  seat  where  their  chief  was  wont  to  keep  his  vigilant 
watch  for  the  enemy.  Here,  too,  is  pointed  out  the  im- 
press in  the  solid  rock  of  an  Indian’s  foot-print.  Corn- 
fields, in  their  season,  then  abounded  where  second  growth 
timber  now  covers  the  ground. 

A fine  mountain  view  is  afforded  from  this  spot — 
Seward,  Ampersand  and  other  peaks  are  included  in  the 
picture. 

Dukett  and  Corey,  with  their  teams,  haul  boats  and 
baggage  over  the  Indian  Carry — price  7 5 cents  per  load. 

Near  the  shore  of  the  first  pond,  at  the  termination  of 
the  carry,  on  a smooth  grassy  lawn,  near  a crystal  spring 
of  unusual  size,  is  a favorite  camping  place. 

The  Spectacle  Ponds  are  connected  together  by  short 
channels.  The  first  and  third  of  these  linked  beauties 
are  nearly  round  and  about  J-  m in  diameter.  The  second 
is  much  larger  (the  route  crosses  its  narrowest  portion) 
and  very  irregular  in  form,  an  island  cutting  it  nearly  in 
two.  There  is  a blind  carry  of  2 m from  the  E.  shore  of 
this  pond  to  Bartlett’s  Landing. 

In  going  from  the  first  to  the  second  pond  the  “bridge 
of  the  nose  ” is  psssed  by  dragging  the  boat  through  the 
short  outlet  of  4 or  5 r.  In  passing  up  these  waters  on 
the  way  to  Saranac  Lake,  a short  turn  to  the  left  should 
be  made  soon  after  entering  the  second  pend.  Just  where 
the  Stony  Creek  departs  from  the  last  of  these  ponds,  on 
its  rather  shallow  and  sinuous  course  to  the  Raquette 
River,  Ampersand  Brook  discharges  the  water  it  has 
brought  from  Ampersand  Pond. 

At  the  mouth  of  this  stream  we  advise  the  angler  to 
throw  his  fly,  as  speckled  trout  of  unusual  size  frequent 
this  spot. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


T25 


(2).  From  Bartlett’s  Landing,,  cross  the  lake  to  “ Swee- 
ny’s Place/’  (now  Daniels,)  2 m above  Corey’s  on  W. 
shore,  and  pass  over  the  3 m carry  to  the  Raquette  River. 
From  thence  to  Big  Tupper  Lake  it  is  n m,  and  hence 
the  distance  saved  in  comparison  with  the  Stony  Creek 
route  is  about  1 1 m. 

A lovelier  picture  is  rarely  seen  than  that  beheld  from 
the  Sweeny  Place.  Beautiful  green  islands,  frequently 
fringed  with  beaches  of  white  sand,  stud  the  waters  of  the 
lake  in  front,  and  on  the  right  and  left.  Old  Whitelace, 
with  the  light  spot  on  his  brow,  ever  conspicuous,  towers 
grandly  into  the  sky,  asserting  his  supremacy  over  many 
other  ambitious  peaks  that  rise  and  face  him,  dim  and 
hazy  in  the  distance.  Far,  far  beyond  the  vision’s  utmost 
grasp,  the  unbroken  forest  stretches  away.  It  is  a scene 
to  be  viewed  for  hours  with  increasing  delight.  The 
“ Sweeny  Carry  ” is  a pleasant  forest  road,  passing  for 
most  of  the  distance  through  an  immense  “ sugar  bush.” 
Wm.  H.  Daniel  and  his  brother,  one  occupying  the  house 
on  the  lake,  the  other  living  at  the  river  end  of  the  port- 
age, do  the  business  of  transportation.  Price  $1.50  per 
load. 

Parties  visiting  this  lake,  usually  camp  upon  Bear  Point, 
3 m above  Daniel’s  ; Watch  Point  2 m above  that ; Buck 
Island  and  Goose  Island  2 or  3 m from  the  head  ; and 
Birch  Island  near  the  foot  of  the  lake. 

Eastern  capitalists  own  much  of  the  land  in  this  sec- 
tion. A Mr.  Grant  is  possessor  of  thousands  of  acres  on 
the  Raquette  River.  Mr.  Norton  of  Plattsburg,  is  owner 
of  a large  tract  adjacent  to  the  Saranac  waters,  including 
“ Hough’s  Place.” 

Many  an  Adirondack  “ farm  ” reverts  back  to  the  State 
for  unpaid  taxes. 


n6 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


(3) .  Fish  Creek  enters  the  lake  on  W.  side,  3 m above 
Daniel’s  and  4 m below  Hough’s.  By  paddling  up  the 
stream  a short  distance,  admission  is  gained  to  a chain 
of  upwards  of  20  smiling  ponds,  closely  interlacing  witii 
each  other,  which  may  be  visited  in  detail  without  carrying- 
over  100  r in  the  entire  trip.  In  regular  order,  Lower,  Mid- 
dle and  Upper  Fish  Creek,  and  Big  Square  Ponds  are  trav- 
ersed. It  is  J m up  the  creek  from  Upper  Pond  to  Mud 
Pond,  and  1 m from  thence  up  the  same  stream  to  Duck 
Pond  ; Little  Copperas  and  Little  Square  Ponds  follow 
in  close  succession  ; and  1 m farther  still  by  inlet  takes 
us  to  Floodwood  Pond.  Here  the  route  becomes  identical 
with  route  No.  4.  In  this  “ Hunters  Paradise  ” the  sports- 
man’s “ occupation  is  {never)  gone.”* 

(4) .  Hough’s  Hotel  is  situated  at  the  north  end  and  near 
the  inlet  of  the  Upper  Saranac  Lake,  at  an  elevation  of 
1 700  feet  above  tide  water.  It  commands  a water  view 
of  nearly  three  miles  in  a semi-circle,  dotted  here  and 
there  with  beautiful  islands,  forming  a picture  of  trans- 
cendent loveliness.  Beyond  are  numerous  elevations  of 
g~eat  variety  and  beauty,  and  farther  back  tower  the  prin- 
cipal mountains  of  the  Adirondacks.  Whiteface,  Marcy, 
McIntyre,  Seward,  Long  Lake  Mountains,  Ampersand, 
Mt.  Morris  and  Tupper  Lake  Range,  Wolf  and  Long 
Pond  Mountains,  and  the  St.  Regis,  are  all  visible  from 
the  hotel 

The  scenery  at  this  point  may  be  ranked  with  the  finest 
in  the  Wilderness,  and  should  be  seen  by  all  tourists  to  the 
Adirondacks.  The  house  with  its  new  and  extensive 


*Deer  Pond  is  reached  by  a carry  leading  westward  from  the  W.  shore,  at 
a point  about  midway  between  the  'wouth  of  Fish  Creek  and  Daniel’s  place, 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


i2 7 


additions  is  adapted  to  the  wants  of  75  to  100  guests 
The  fishing  for  ten  months  of  the  year  it  is  claimed,  is 
bettef  at  and  in  its  immediate  vicinity  than  at  any  other 
locality. 

Within  a radius  of  three  miles  are  over  thirty  lakes 
and  ponds,  all  richly  abounding  in  fish. 

The  head  of  the  Upper  Saranac  Lake  has  always  been 
a famous  hunting  ground,  and  is  still  entitled  to  that 
reputation. 

The  house  is  furnished  at  all  times  with  venison  from 
the  hills  and  mountains,  of  which  it  is  in  sight.  Other 
desirable  fishing  and  hunting  grounds  are  easily  reached 
from  this  place. 

Stages  run  daily,  morning  and  evening,  over  the 
splendid  turnpike  road  through  the  forest  to  Blooming- 
dale,  to  connect  with  the  Ausable  and  other  lines. 


Route  from  Hotel  to  Big  Tupper  Lake,  via  Hoel, 
Floodwood , Rollins,  etc.,  Ponds,  with  proximate  distances  : 


Inlet,  - - - ■ 
Spring  Pond, 
Portage,  - - - 

Green  Pond,  - - 

Portage,  - - ■ 

Hoel  Pond,  - - 

Portage,  - - - 
Mud  Turtle  Pond, 
Stream,  - - - 

Slang  Pond,  - - 

Portage,  - - - 


f mile. 


5 rods. 
1 mile. 
10  rods. 
| mile. 

i “ 


128 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Big  Long  Pond, 
Portage,  - - - 
Floodwood  Pond, 
Portage,  - - - 

Rollin’s  Pond,  - 
Portage,  - - - 

Mosquito  Pond,  - 
Portage,  - - - 
Little  Long  Pond, 
Portage,  - 
Big  Wolf  Pond, 
Portage,  - - - 
Little  Wolf  Pond, 

“ “ Brook, 

Raquette  Pond, 

“ River, 


2 miles 

1 

ii  “ 
i “ 

2 “ 

■i  “ 

* “ 

ll  « 

1 2 

i “ 


Total, 


29  miles. 


Spring  Pond  is  noted  for  the  transparency  of  its  waters. 
Green  Pond  is  a most  lovely  sheet.  Hoel  Pond  is  famed 
for  the  abundance  of  trout  it  furnishes  all  the  year  through. 
Mud  Turtle  Pond  affords  but  few  lily-pads  for  deer.  Slang 
.Pond,  on  the  contrary,  is  silvered  over  with  them,  especially 
at  its  upper  extremity,  and  hence  is  very  attractive  to  this 
animal.  Portions  of  the  shores  of  Big  Long  Pond  are 
composed  of  marshy  ground. 

Between  Big  Long  and  Floodwood  Ponds  a stream 
enters  the  outlet,  flowing  from  Rainbow  and  Pine  Ponds 
N.  W.  ; by  carrying  N.  W.  from  these  waters  we  may 
reach  Dry  Channel,  Ledge,  Windfall,  Blue,  McDonald, 
East  etc.  Ponds,  sources  of  the  St.  Regis  River. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


129 


Long  P.  affords  good  springs  and  an  abundance  oftrout. 

Floodwood  P.  has  several  very  pretty  islands,  one  of 
which  is  called  Beaver  Isle.  It  is  a beautiful  and  favorite 
location  for  camping.  From  this  pond  by  route  No.  3 
(p.  120)  we  may  descend  the  Fish  Creek  waters  4J  m. 
to  the  U.  Saranac,  and  pass  from  thence  up  the  lake — 
4 m. — to  Prospect  House  (Van  Arnam’s). 

Rollin’s,  or  Rawlin’s  P — a delightful  sheet,  command- 
ing noble  views  of  Mt.  Seward  and  subordinate  peaks — 
contains  Camp  and  three  or  four  other  picturesque 
islands.  By  following  the  inlet  entering  its  N.  extremity 
from  the  N.  W.,  we  may  visit  White  Pine  P. ; and  by 
carrying  from  thence  we  reach  Mountain,  River,  Wells, 
etc.,  Ponds,  headwaters  of  Jordan  and  St.  Regis  Rivers  * 

Mosquito  P.  is  a dismal  sheet ; shores  low  and  swampy  ; 
scenery  gloomy  and  desolate.  Between  Mosquito  and 
Little  Long  Ponds,  acres  of  the  marshy  ground  tremble  be- 
neath our  feet  like  the  throbbing  caused  by  an  earthquake. 

Big  Wolf  P. — a bewitching  lake  with  shining  beaches  of 
sand  nearly  encircling  it — is  renowned  for  the  large-sized 
trout  it  has  produced.  In  1871  Dr.  Perkins,  of  Albany, 
brought  one  over  the  side  of  his  boat  weighing  25^  lbs.; 
and  “North  Elba”  Blin  took  therefrom  a 30  pounder. 
But  latterly  none  larger  than  12  lbs.  are  taken.  Cold 
springs  and  good  camping  sites  abound  here. 

Just  below  Little  Wolf  P.  a stream  enters  Wolf  Brook, 
flowing  from  Lead  and  Woodbury  Ponds,  lying  E.  and 
N.  E.  Wolf  Brook  is  exceedingly  crooked  and  fre- 
quently shallow.  It  may  be  avoided  by  carrying  2 m.  S. 
to  Raquette  Pond.  (See pp.  57  and  219.) 

Raquette  P.  or  Lough  Neak  is  a quiet  and  pretty  little 
lake  about  2-|  x }.  A pleasing  view  is  here  obtained  of 
Marcy,  Whiteface,  Seward  and  other  summits  of  the 
Adirondack  Range.  “ Capt.  Peters  Rocks  ” rise  from 
the  water  near  the  foot.  It  is  related  that  Capt.  Peter, 
father  of  Mitchell  Sabattis — a famous  sire  of  a famous 
son — in  former  times  made  a practice  of  secreting  his 
game  and  traps  among  these  granite  masses  ; and  here 
he  made  bis  famous  leap  to  the  shore — good  16  feet. 

*From  Rollin’s  P.  carry  m.  E.;  cross  Whey  P..  (i  x -£•);  carry  i m.  E.; 
cross  Big  Square  P.  (x  \ x i) — thus  reaching  Upper  Fish  Creek  P.  $ 


30 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


The  “ Wolf  Pond  Route,”  as  this  is  called,  being  rough 
and  swampy  in  many  places,  is  only  traveled  by  adven- 
turous hunters  and  fishermen.  Ladies  never  attempt  to 
follow  it. 


At  the  village  of  Ausable  Forks,  at  the  junction  of  the 
E.  and  W.  branches  of  the  Ausable  River,  the  traveler 
journeying  toward  the  Saranac  waters  may  diverge  from 
the  plank  road  by  a new  and  most  romantic  route  which 
is  rapidly  becoming  a popular  avenue  to  the  Wilderness. 
It  possesses  the  advantages  of  being  a shorter  route  than 
the  one  via  Franklin  Falls,  and  what  is  more  interesting, 
it  passes  through  the  celebrated  Wilmington  Notch,  a deep 
'and  wonderful  chasm  piercing  the  E.  flank  of  Whiteface 
Mountain. 

From  Ausable  Forks  to  Wilmington  via  Lower  Jay  it 
is  n m ; via  Black  Brook,  9 m ; and  thus  the  route  may 
be  shortened  2 m by  making  Black  Brook  instead  of 
Ausable  Forks  the  diverging  point,  and  pursuing  the  W. 
branch  in  place  of  the  E.  branch  of  the  Ausable. 

Wilmington  to  Wilmington  Notch,  6 m ; North  Elba, 
6 m ; Martin’s,  via  Blood’s,  10  m.  The  Whiteface  Moun- 
tain House,  at  Wilmington,  is  located  on  the  banks  of  the 
W.  Ausable  and  near  the  base  of  Whiteface  Mountain,  in 
the  midst  of  soipe  of  the  most  grand  and  imposing 
scenery  of  the  Adirondacks.  Some  40  or  50  visitors  can 
be  handsomely  entertained  at  this  house  and  they  will  be 
furnished  with  boats  to  use  on  the  stream  and  con- 
veyances for  ascending  the  mountains.  From  base  to 
summit  the  distance  is  6J  m.  Parties  are  conveyed  with 
carriages  2\  m ; here  saddle  horses  are  taken  for  the 
remainder  of  the  ascent,  3f  m.  Messrs.  Weston  & Ayer, 
the  enterprising  proprietors  of  the  Mountain  House,  have 


vitr  ;•  • - 

IrHil  ^ ><ti  i'  / • ■ t-  i 

T^-air  t 

: ; ■ : ; 1 ■ ■■  •■■;•',• 

lit  -S  •/*  : w:.;  *•  . -M.  ,,  :• 

■ ■ 


Mum  i . . ; ■ ’ • • I 


SUMMIT  OF  WHITE  FACE  MOUNTAIN. 


PLAOTD  T.AKTC 


MT.  MAliCT— WOLF  POND. 


BIG  FALLS,  NEAR  WILMINGTON  PASS. 


descriptive  guide. 


151 

erected  a rustic  lodge  near  the  summit,  in  which  good 
board  and  comfortable  lodging  can  be  obtained.  Hospi- 
tality nearly  a mile  above  tide  is  a virtue  worthy  of  cele- 
bration. 

Whiteface -Mountain  derived  its  name  from  an  avalanche 
that  swept  down  its  western  slope  nearly  70  years  ago. 
Viewed  from  a distance  this  slide  presents  a whitish  ap- 
pearance, especially  near  the  crown.  Whiteface  is  in 
some  respects  the  grandest  pinnacle  in  this  princely  range. 
Several  authorities  from  early  surveys  pronounce  it  the 
loftiest.  It  furnishes,  according  to  Emmons,  a greater 
extent  of  surlhce  upon  its  summit,  formed  of  chaotic 
masses  of  rocks,  than  any  other  mountain  of  the  northern 
counties.  It  is  abrupt  in  its  acclivities,  symmetrical  in  its 
proportions,  isolated  in  its  situation,  and  commands  the 
most  extended  and  magnificent  prospect  of  all  the  group. 
Looking  toward  the  E.  we  behold  the  broad  bosom  of 
Lake  Champlain,  the  emerald  slopes  of  the  Green  Mount- 
ains, the  shadowy  outlines  of  the  “ White  Hills,”  with 
intervening  woodland  and  cultivated  fields  ; to  the  S. 
Adirondack  sublimity  breaks  upon  the  eye — “ majestic 
forms  towering  above  airy  masses  ” — proudly  conspicuous 
among  which  are  Nipple  Top  and  the  grand  Tahawus; 
in  the  W.  we  discern  a limitless  expanse  of  dense  forests 
where  gleams  of  silver  disclose  the  location  of  the  Sara- 
nacs,  the  Tuppers,  and  a multitude  of  other  lakes  ; while 
at  the  N.  we  overlook  the  flashing  mirror  of  Lake  Ontario, 
the  glittering  waters  of  the  St.  Lawrence,  the  spires  and 
turrets  of  Montreal,  and  the  far-spreading  wilderness  of 
the  Canadas.  At  the  foot  of  the  mountain  lies  Lake 
Placid — “a  picture  of  fairy  land” — a most  lovely  feature 
of  a landscape  presenting  such  variety  “ that  all  the 
elements  of  beauty  and  grandeur  seem  blended  together.” 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Stages  depart  daily  from  the  Mountain  House  for  Point 
of  Rocks,  North  Elba,  Martin’s,  Elizabethtown,  &c. 

Leaving  Wilmington  and  approaching  the  Notch  we 
pa.use  to  inspect  and  admire  on  the  way  the  Flume  {2k  m),' 
as  attractive  a natural  wonder  as  the  Flume,  of  the  White 
Mountains  ; Little  Falls  (3!  m),  a dashing,  charming  cas- 
cade ; Big  Falls,  where  the  stream  leaps  down  a perpen- 
dicular precipice  of  100  ft.  into  the  dark  abyss  below,  and 
Copperas  Pond  (100  acres)  lying  far  up  the  slopes  of 
Promontory  Mountain,  whose  waters  are  strongly  impreg- 
nated with  sulphate  of  iron  and  in  whose  vicinity  native 
copperas  abounds  in  rich  profusion.  Entering  the  colos- 
sal portals  of  the  Pass  we  are  filled  with  amazement 
and  awe  by  its  utter  wildness  and  savage  grandeur.  Here 
the  Ausable,  compressed  to  a few  feet  in  breadth,  bursts 
through  the  mountain  obstruction  and  thunders  onward 
in  its  furious  career.  On  the  right,  Whiteface,  with 
almost  perpendicular  ascent,  towers  in  awful  majesty  2,000 
ft.  above  its  bed  ; upon  the  opposite  side  another  precip- 
itous mass  attains  an  altitude  of  nearly  equal  sublimity. 
Thus  for  2 m does  this  terrific  gorge  extend,  and  through 
one-eighth  of  that  distance  these  tremendous  walls  so 
nearly  approach  each  other  that  scant  space  is  allowed 
for  the  road  and  stream.  Shortly  after  emerging  from 
this  wonderful  gateway  of  natural  masonry,  by  bearing  to 
the  r,  by  a “turn-off”  from  the  traveled  route,  Lake 
Placid  may  be  examined  ; but  it  is  usually  visited  by  pri- 
vate conveyance  from  North  Elba,  from  which  it  is  2 m 
distant.  At  the  termination  of  this  branch  road  the 
tourist  will  find  two  very  comfortable  lake-side  retreats — 
Nash’s  and  Brewster’s — where  all  his  wants  will  be  care- 
fully consulted.  The  former  can  accommodate  20  and  the 
latter  60  guests. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


133 


Nash’s  Lake,  formerly  called  Bennett’s  Pond  (ij  x f ), 
lying  E.  about  i m,  is  reached  by  a good  path,  and  N.  of 
that  a short  distance  lies  Conery  Pond  (1  x J). 

Paradox  Pond  connects  with  Lake  Placid  at  its  southern 
extremity  by  a narrow  strait,  its  only  inlet  or  outlet.  A 
curious  phenomenon  gives  this  sheet  its  name.  A swift 
current  of  water  flows  from  the  lake  into  the  pond  for  a 
space  of  3 or  4 minutes,  and  after  an  interval  of  about  7 
minutes  the  current  is  reversed — the  water  discharging 
into  the  lake  again.  This  mysterious  action  is  of  per- 
petual occurrence. 

Lake  Placid  (5  x i-|)  is  the  principal  source  of  W. 
Ausable  River.  Being  partially  divided  longitudinally 
by  a row  of  islands  (Buck,  Moose  and  Hawk  Isles,)  it 
almost  assumes  the  form  of  2 distinct  bodies  of  water,  which 
are  locally  termed  “ East,”  and  “ West  ” Lake.  It  is 
distinguished  for  the  crystalline  clearness  of  its  waters,  its 
unique  and  comely  proportions,  and  its  grand  and  fascin- 
ating surroundings.  A combination  of  lake,  forest  and 
mountain  scenery  is  here  presented,  perhaps  unsurpassed 
in  all  the  Adirondack  Region.  Old  Whiteface,  the  most 
prominent  feature  in  the  landscape,  rises  majestically  from 
the  head  of  the  lake,  the  personification  of  loftiness  and 
loneliness.  To  ascend  this  mountain  upon  this  side, 
parties  pass  up  the  lake  with  boats  and  follow  the  footway 
leading  from  the  beach.  The  rise  is  very  gradual  at  the 
commencement,  but  as  the  summit  is  approached  becomes 
quite  abrupt.  The  ascent  and  return  trip  to  Nash’S  or 
Brewster’s,  however,  is  comfortably  accomplished  within  a 
day.  Even  ladies  have  performed  all  this  without  suffer- 
ing great  fatigue. 

Fishing  and  hunting  are  as  good  in  this  vicinity  as  at 
any  other  locality  in  the  mountainous  section,  though  fish 


*34 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


and  deer  are  not  generally  as  abundant  among  the  mount- 
ains as  on  the  plateau. 

John  Brown’s*  “historic  grave,”  a modern  “Mecca,” 
and  the  objective  point  of  many  a pilgrimage,  is  within 
i m of  North  Elba,  and  the  same  distance  from  the  high- 
way leading  to  Martin’s,  being  clearly  visible  from  the 
road.  “ His  grandfather’s  tombstone,  brought  at  his  re- 
quest from  Massachusetts,  marks  the  spot,  and  loving 
hands  have  planted  roses  and  other  flowers  over  and 
around  his  resting  place.  The  humble  residence  of  ‘ Old 
Ossawatamie,’  from  which  he  and  his  boys  departed  for 
Harper’s  Ferry  and  to  which  his  inanimate  remains 
were  returned,  stands  on  a high  bluff  on  the  W.  bank  of 
the  Ausable.”  This  with  the  farm,  which  lies  adjacent  to 
Scott’s,  have  been  secured  by  a company  consisting  of 
Miss  Kate  Fields,  Isaac  H.  Bailey,  John  E.  Williams, 
Wm.  H.  Lee,  Geo.  A.  Robbins,  G.  C.  Ward,  D.  R.  Mar- 
tin, Chas.  A.  Smith,  Isaac  Sherman,  Elliot  C.  Cowden, 
Thos.  Murphy,  Chas.  G.  Judson,  Salem  H.  Wales,  Sinclair 
Toucey,  Horace  C.  Claflin,  Henry  Clews,  LeGrand  B. 
Cannon,  S.  B.  Chittenden  and  J.  S.  Schultz.  To  the 
untiring  exertions  of  the  fair  name  that  heads  the  list,  this 
company  is  indebted  for  its  organization.  Its  object  is  to 
hold  this  property  as  a remembrancer  of  the  most  startling 
event  in  the  extraordinary  career  of  the  “ martyr  hero.” 


Again  the  tourist  approaching  the  Saranac  Lakes  via 
Plattsburg  or  Port  Kent  may  visit  the  lovely  Keene 
Valley  by  making  a detour  from  the  regular  route,  also  at 
Ausable  Forks,  and  following  the  E.  or  S.  branch  of  the 
Ausable  over  a good  road.  To  Lower  Jay,  a very  pretty 

*This  name  should  not  be  confounded  with  that  of  the  former  owner  of 
John  Brown’s  Tract,  from  whom  that  section  derives  its  name. 


H'flKrrb, 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  135 

tillage,  it  is  6 m ; Upper  Jay,  3 m ; Keene,  5 m ; Scott’s, 
10  m ; North  Elba,  3 m ; Martin’s,  10  m.  From  Keene 
up  the  valley  to  Keene  Flats  village,  5 m ; Alma  L. 
Beede’s,  at  the  head  of  the  “ flats,”  2\  m.  Here  the  road 
proper  terminates,  but  a rough  woods  road,  passable  for 
wagons,  extends  3%  m farther  S.  to  Lower  Ausable  Pond. 
Within  the  town  of  Keene  the  Adirondack  Range  reaches 
its  loftiest  culminations,  and  Keene  Valley  is  one  of  the 
wildest  and  most  enchanting  of  all  the  nooks  in  this 
region  of  wildness  and  beauty.  No  place  commands  more 
glorious  panoramic  views.  The  entire  horizon  is  grandly 
serrated  with  mountain  pinnacles.  It  is  hemmed  in  and 
overlooked  by  Bald  Peak,  Camel’s  Hump,  Haystack,  Bear 
Mountain,  Giant  of  the  Valley,  Indian  Face,  Hopkins’, 
Baxter’s  and  Dix’s  Peaks,  and  with  his  mighty  head  up- 
lifted above  the  dark  shoulders  of  his  subordinates, 
Tahawus,  the  “ sky  piercer,”  vulgarly  termed  Marcy,  the 
monarch  of  these  almost  countless  peaks — this  veritable 
“ Legion  of  Five  Hundred.”  So  nearly  contiguous  are 
some  of  these  pyramidal  towers,  that  the  valley  which 
they  overshadow,  is  in  certain  places  scarcely  of  sufficient 
width  to  accommodate  both  the  road  and  the  river.  The 
narrow  district  thus  encompassed,  5 to  8 m in  length, 
possesses,  perhaps,  with  its  environs,  a richer  variety  of 
natural  beauties  in  the  way  of  lake,  mountain,  chasm  and 
cascade,  than  any  other  section  of  equal  extent  within  the 
boundaries  of  these  “ Northern  Wilds.”  A full  descrip- 
tion of  the  delightful  rambles  and  the  superlative  attrac- 
tions belonging  to  this  neighborhood  would  require  more 
space  than  the  size  of  our  volume  will  allow.  We  can 
only  briefly  allude  to  the  most  important  features  of  this 
exceedingly  interesting  section. 

Clifford  Falls,  which  occur  upon  a brook,  an  affluent  of 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


136 

the  Ausable,  2 m N.  W.  of  Keene,  are  reached  by  wagon 
road,  a branch  of  the  North  Elba  route.  Their  height  is 
about  60  ft.  and  the  romantic  chasm  through  which  they 
pour  is  itself  one  of  the  most  attractive  features  of  this 
locality.  From  the  bridge  spanning  the  gorge  we  have  a 
magnificent  view  of  them. 

Sherburne  Falls,  upon  the  Ausable,  are  1 m S.  of  Keene, 
near  the  main  road.  Their  greatest  height  is  about  50  ft. 
and  they  present  a rich  array  of  charming  scenery. 

Haines’s,  or  more  correctly,  Hull’s  Falls,  also  upon  the 
Ausable,  1 m S.  of  Sherburne  Falls,  are  thus  described  by 
the  spicy  and  brilliant  pen  of  a lady  correspondent  of  the 
Brooklyn  Union  : 

“ After  a drive  of  3 m along  the  ever-pleasant  Ausable, 
after  fording  the  rushing  river  to  their  unspeakable  con- 
sternation and  delight,  and  after  undergoing  thrills  of  ex- 
citement every  time  the  wagon  went  over  a stone  lest 
either  the  intrepid  young  woman  who  did  the  driving  with 
the  red  reins  should  fall  off  her  end,  or  upset  the  equally 
intrepid  young  women  who  were  driven  off  their  end  of 
the  very  small  allowance  of  seat — after  all  these  and  many 
more  little  adventures  had  been  passed  or  forgotten,  we 
came  to  Hull’s  Falls. 

“ Now,  what  I particularly  admire  in  the  Adirondack 
Region  is  this  : the  people  never  brag.  Reason — they 
have  plenty  to  brag  about,  consequently  they  never  do  it. 
In  other  places  you  hear  unlimited  eloquence  lavished 
upon  a lake  (now  I’m  thinking’  of  Saratoga,  but  don’t 
mention  it),  and  you  take  a long  drive  to  see  a miserable, 
stupid,  low-banked  little  affair,  no  more  to  be  compared  to 
the  Saranacs  or  Placid  than  I am  to  Hercules,  or  any 
other  man.  Or  you  are  carried  through  perspiring  dis- 
tances to  see  a waterfall,  and  you  behold  a wretched  little 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


*37 


stream  leaking  over  a few  rocks  in  a fit  of  placid  despair. 
Here,  on  the  contrary,  they  mention  incidentally,  when 
you  tell  them  on  what  road  you  propose  to  drive,  ‘ Wal, 
there’s  some  falls  along  there,  some  folks  think  rather 
handsome  ; p’raps  you’d  like  to  look  at  ’em  as  you  go  by  ’ 
You  deign  to  cast  a casual  glance  at  the  river  occasionally 
on  the  strength  of  this  mild  suggestion,  and  you  are 
astonished  with  a vision  of  a second  Trenton.  Hull’s 
Falls  are  not  so  very  high — not  more  than  30  or  40  ft.  of 
sheer  pitch,  I should  think,  and  then  10  or  20  more  of 
roaring  broken  torrents  over  enormous  rocks — but  they 
are  very  grand  indeed.  There  are  the  green  wooded 
banks  of  the  stream  above  the  old  log  bridge,  and  the 
noisy  rapids  tearing  along,  and  just  below  the  bridge  down 
go  these  fearful  masses  of  rock,  and  roaring,  frantic,  foam- 
ing water,  and  below  them  again  the  straight  grey  mountain 
walls  towering  up  against  the  blue  sky.  They  are  like  the 
great  fall  at  Trenton — not  quite  so  wide,  and  the  amber  color 
of  the  water  not  quite  so  deep,  but  with  a more  savage  wild- 
ness of  expression,  a greater  ruggedness  of  rock  and  ferocity 
of  w?ter  well  suited  to  their  wild  surroundings.” 

Phelps  Falls,  so  named  in  honor  of  the  distinguished 
guide,  Orson  S.  Phelps,  of  whom  we  shall  have  more  to 
say,  are  situated  upon  a little  stream  near  its  entrance 
into  the  Ausable,  a short  distance  N.  of  Keene  Flats. 
The  old  hunter’s  habitation  stands  within  a few  rods  of  the 
falls,  which  have  a descent  of  100  ft.  Here,  too,  much 
that  is  lovely  and  romantic  fill  the  scene. 

Up  John’s  Brook  3 or  4 m,  which  also  empties  near 
Keene  Flats,  are  Big  Falls  ; and  3 or  4 m above  them, 
upon  the  same  stream,  are  Bushnell’s  Falls;  both  of  which 
are  very  sequestered  and  most  charming.  They  are 
accessible  only  by  pathway. 


133  DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 

About  40  r W.  of  the  road  leading  to  Ausable  Ponds, 
and  near  Alma  L.  Beede’s  place,  are  Russell  Falls.  Here 
the  Ausable  River  shoots  with  tremendous  velocity  through 
a winding  granite  pass  of  a mile  in  extent,  whose  massive 
walls  tower  upward  perhaps  200  ft.  ab-ove  the  thundering 
torrent.  Within  this  distance  the  river  falls  about  1 50  ft.  but 
makes  no  perpendicular  leap  of  over  25  ft.  At  one  place, 
about  midway  of  the  gorge,  it  descends  some  50  ft.  within 
6 or  8 r,  forming  a most  beautiful  circular  cascade.  So 
narrow  is  this  chasm  that  it  is  very  hazardous  to  pass 
through  it  when  the  stream  is  high,  if  not  impossible. 

Beaver  Meadow  Falls,  i|  or  2 m farther  up  the  Ausa- 
ble, strikingly  resemble  Russell  Falls,  but  are  on  a more 
extended  scale.  Good  paths  lead  to  them  from  the  road, 
which  passes  within  50  to  80  r of  the  place. 

The  river  falls  378  ft.  between  Lower  Ausable  Pond 
and  Beede’s  house,  which  includes  Russell  and  Beaver 
Meadow  Cascades. 

Rainbow  Falls,  occurring  upon  Cascade  or  Rainbow 
Brook,  are  about  50  r N.  W.  of  the  northern  extremity  of 
the  Lower  Ausable  Pond.  Tourists  walk  up  the  bed  of 
the  stream  to  visit  them. 

“ This  remarkable  cascade,”  says  Watson,  “ forms  a 
striking  feature  of  this  wild,  piqturesque  region.  It  is 
upon  a small  tributary  of  the  S.  or  E.  branch  of  the  Ausa- 
ble River.  The  fall  is  estimated  to  be  125  to  140  ft.  in 
sheer  vertical  descent.  The  site  is  separated  from  the 
nearest  human  residence  on  the  Keene  Plats,  by  a dense 
forest,  3 or  4 m in  extent  and  is  hidden  in  the  recesses 
of  the  vast  wilderness  of  the  Adirondacks.  It  has  but 
lately  been  revealed  to  public  notice.  The  falls  are  at 
present  accessible  only  by  a path  through  the  forest  ; but 
they  have  already  excited  the  attention  of  the  artist  and 


CHAPEL  POND 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


139 


explorer,  and  it  is  in  contemplation  to  immediately  open 
by  convenient  roads,  a district  that  will  be  regarded  not 
among  the  least  attractive  or  interesting  in  the  Adiron- 
dack Region,  to  the  sportsman  and  the  worshiper  of  Na- 
ture in  her  secluded  temples. 

“ About  4 m N.  E.  of  Rainbow  Falls,  upon  the  branch  of 
the  Roaring  Creek,  and  hidden  among  the  cliffs  and  forests, 
another  cascade  will  be  found,  if  possible  still  more  im- 
pressive and  remarkable,  namely,  Beede’s  or  Roaring 
Brook  Falls.  There  are  in  reality  two  falls  in  connection  : 
one  leaps  over  a vertical  precipice  into  the  deep  gorge  ; 
the  other  rushes  down  250  ft.  in  a rapid  descent,  along  a 
groove  5 ft.  in  depth,  which  by  the  force  of  the  water  has 
been  worn  into  the  solid  rock.” 

Let  us  quote  again  in  reference  to  these  falls  : “ Leav- 
ing Hull’s  Falls  behind,  we  passed  through  leafy  woods 
along  the  river  in  a gentler  mood.  Lovely  openings  in 
the  soft,  green  foliage  showed  us  sweet  serene  glimpses 
of  narrow  intervale  dotted  with  feathery  elms,  and  open- 
ing out  in  little  vistas  of  sunlit  meadow-beauty  fit  for  an 
English  park,  reminding  us  of  Tennyson’s  landscape, 
where 

“ ‘Grey  twilight  poured, 

On  dewy  pastures,  dew^  trees, 

Softer  than  sleep — all  things  in  order  stored, 

A haunt  of  ancient  Peace.’ 

“At  last,  after  a walk  about  twice  as  long  as  we  ex- 
pected, we  came  upon  the  falls — Roaring  Brook  Falls, 
I believe  they  are  called — and  all  perils  of  flood  and  field 
were  at  once  forgotten.  The  scenery  was  like  Bash-bish, 
but  much  finer,  and  at  the  head  of  the  gorge,  right  before 
is,  towered  an  immense  perpendicular  granite  wall?  fully 


140 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


300  ft.  high,  through  a narrow  cleft  in  which  fell  the 
water  sheer  from  the  top  to  the  rocks  at  our  feet,  dashed 
into  millions  of  sparkling  drops  long  ere  it  touched  the 
bottom.  I cannot  imagine  that  the  Staubach  can  be  any 
grander,  and  the  fall  at  Bash-bish  fades  into  insignificance 
before  this  wonderful  leap.  You  can  see  the  top  and  bot- 
tom of  the  fall  for  some  distance  down  the  stream,  but  a 
twist  in  the  chasm  prevents  your  seeing  it  in  its  whole 
extent  unless  you  climb  a pinnacle  of  rock  just  where  the 
water  strikes  the  earth  again.  Here  you  see  the  whole 
length  of  this  glorious  cascade  from  its  first  plunge  over 
the  brow  of  the  precipice — so  high  above  you  that  the 
trees  which  crown  it  look  like  shrubs — down  to  the  gath- 
ering of  the  scattered  drops  below  your  feet,  from  whence 
they  dash  from  rock  to  rock,  making  miniature  falls  and 
cool,  trembling  pools  for  200  ft.  more  of  slow  and  gradual 
descent. 

“While  we  looked  and  admired  and  did  homage,  the 
boys,  whom  we  had  pressed  into  our  service,  having  first 
inquired  if  we  thought  it  would  be  very  wicked  to  make  a 
fishing  rod  on  Sunday,  caught  us  a string  of  trout — such 
speckled  beauties,  with  which  we  went  home  rejoicing, 
and  even  the  frightful  fords  were  trampled  through  with 
satisfied  hearts,  though  bruised  and  aching  feet,  after  such 
a feast  of  beauty  as  we  had  had  that  morning.  The  trout 
graced  our  tea-table,  a welcome  addition  to  its  homely  fare, 
for  here  is  no  pampering  of  dainty  appetites,  except  with 
delicious  cream  and  eggs  and  butter.” — [L.  F. 

Roaring  Brook  Falls  are  also  near  the  Ausable  Pond 
r ad  (-J-  m W.)  and  within  a few  rods  of  Smith  Beede’s 
house.  Wagons  approach  within  20  r of  them. 

The  charming  mountain-environed  Chapel  Pond,  source 
of  Roaring  Brook,  lying  1 m E.  of  these  falls,  in  a deep 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


141 

gorge  between  the  Ausable  and  Boquet  Rivers,  is  reached 
by  a good  path.  This  sheet  is  fed  by  two  other  little 
tarns,  most  worthy  objects  of  the  explorer’s  attention. 
One  of  them,  which  is  about  20  r in  diameter,  lies  ■£  m N. 
E.  and  nestles  in  a little  nook  set  in  the  point  of  a moun- 
tain— like  a diamond  in  a mass  of  agate — and  at  an  eleva- 
tion of  half  a thousand  feet  above  Chapel  Pond.  An 
irregular,  precipitous  wall  of  solid  masonry  forms  its 
savage  and  romantic  surroundings.  The  other  pond 
(J  x is  200  or  300  ft.  higher  and  lies  ^ m E.  of  Chapel 
Pond.  Its  borders  are  less  abrupt  and  interesting,  but 
nevertheless  it  is  wildly  attractive. 

One  and  a half  miles  S.  E.  of  Chapel  Pond,  is  Round 
or  Bullet  Pond  (-|  x J),  serving  as  the  fountain  head  of 
Boquet  R.  Not  far  from  Roaring  Brook  Falls,  S.  W., 
also  within  a few  rods  of  the  Pond  road,  is  another  inter- 
esting object  for  contemplation,  viz : Gill  Brook  Flume, 
and  from  this  leads  a blind  trail  S.  3 m to  still  another 
natural  wonder,  yet  to  be  examined  ; namely,  the  “ Hun- 
ter’s Pass.”  Other  scenes  of  equal  beauty  are  revealed  to 
those  who  penetrate  more  deeply  into  these  solitudes.  It 
has  been  beautifully  expressed  that  “ Nature  cunningly 
hides  the  gems  of  her  landscape  a little  away  from  the 
noisy  and  dusty  paths,  and  imposes  the  condition  of 
leisure,  calmness  of  mind,  and  reverent  seeking,  before 
they  shall  be  enjoyed.” — [Thomas  Starr  King. 

The  traveler  should  not  depart  from  Keene  Valley  with- 
out visiting  the  lovely  Ausable  Ponds — headwaters  of  the 
E.  Ausable  River.  They  are  placed  in  the  midst  of 
scenery  of  remarkable  wildness  and  sublimity.  Gigantic 
mountain  sentinels  guard  them  on  every  hand,  gazing 
solemnly  upon  their  own  sombre  shadows  in  the  still 
waters  beneath 


142 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


The  Lower  Pond  is  about  i h,  x i,  and  the  Upper  Pond 
about  2 x J.  The  stream  that  links  them  together  is 
unnavigable  and  they  are  accessible  from  each  other 
by  a portage  of  i m.  Trout  of  superior  quality  are  very 
plentiful  in  these  waters.  Commodious  boats  are  kept 
there  for  the  accommodation  of  parties.  The  mountains 
of  resort  from  the  Keene  district  are  Hurricane,  Baxter  s, 
Hopkins’  and  Dix’s  Peaks,  the  Giant,  Camel’s  Hump, 
Marcy,  Hsystack,  Skylight,  Basin,  Saddleback  and  Gothic 
Mountains,  the  last  6 of  which  are  most  readily  reached 
from  the  Ausable  Ponds.  The  distance  to  the  summit  of 
Mt.  Marcy  by  trail  from  the  foot  of  the  Upper  Pond  is  5 
m N.  W.  It  is  perhaps  more  frequently  ascended  from 
Keene  Flats,  the  nearest  village  to  this  mountain,  by  a 
path  that  follows  the  course  of  John’s  Brook  S.  W.,  inter- 
secting with  what  is  called  the  Panther  Gorge  Trail,  which 
lies  up  the  E.  side.  The  distance  by  this  route  is  about  9 
m and  it  passes  within  sight  of  Big  Falls  and  Bushnell’s 
Falls,  heretofore  named,  and  a most  wonderful  cascade 
which  plunges  down  the  side  of  Marcy  1,000  ft.  into  the 
dark  and  impenetrable  caverns  of  the  Panther  Gorge, 
forming  a spectacle,  when  the  water  has  sufficient  volume, 
thrilling  and  magnificent  in  the  highest  degree.  This 
gorge  is  a tremendous  ravine,  formed  by  the  precipitous 
sides  of  Mt.  Marcy  and  Haystack  Mt.  Its  walls  in  some 
places  tower  aloft  in  perpendicular  ascent  to  an  altitude 
of  ten  or  twelve  hundred  feet. 

Boreas  Pond  (ij  x f),  S.  W.  of  the  Upper  Ausable  Pond, 
is  reached  by  boating  up  the  inlet,  really  the  Ausable 
River,  3 m,  and  following  a trail  from  thence  2 m.  The 
Boreas,  a source  of  the  Hudson  by  the  Boreas  River,  is 
in  reality  two  distinct  bodies  of  water  connected  by  short 
narrows.  It  is  an  uninteresting  sheet  with  marshy  shores 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  £43 

but  yields  large  numbers  of  speckled  trout  and  commands 
to  the  N.  a grand  and  most  fascinating  mountain  prospect. 
Eight  or  10  m S.  W.  of  it  the  forest  village  of  Tahawus, 
or  Lower  Iron  Works,  is  situated.  The  remains  of  a long 
abandoned  beaver  settlement  are  still  observable  in  this 
vicinity.  The  old  trapper,  Orson  S.  Phelps,  thus  writes  to 
the  Keene  County  Paper  in  reference  to  this  subject : — 

“On  a beaver  meadow  some  five  miles  west  of  the 
Upper  Lake,  and  3 m N.  W.  of  the  Boreas  Pond,  and  on 
the  outlet  near  White  Lily  Pond,  I found  a beaver  town 
or  city,  or  about  one  acre  of  ground  that  was  once  water, 
I suppose,  that  is  covered  about  as  thick  as  it  can  be  with 
beaver  huts  or  houses  and  leave  them  room  to  go  between. 
They  were  not  particular  about  their  streets  being  straight 
or  square,  but  their  houses  are  uniform.  It  is  all  grown 
over  now  with  a beautiful  grove  of  tamarack.  I did  not 
see  a mark  of  an  ax  within  a mile  of  it  until  I made  it. 
The  houses  are  about  the  size  of  a two  barrel  caldron 
kettle.  I presume  about  the  time  Champlain  was  making 
his  first  trip  into  the  Lake  there  were  lively  times  with 
beaver  in  that  pond,  as  it  probably  was  a pond  at  that 
time.” 

This  pioneer  guide  and  engineer  of  most  of  the  routes 
that  scale  the  heights  of  the  Keene  Pyramids,  whose 
numerous  explorations  have  gained  for  him  the  sobriquet 
of  the  “ Old  Man  of  the  Mountains,”  in  a style  charac- 
teristic of  him,  thus  replies  to  some  of  our  enquiries  : — 
“ I guess  I am  about  as  well  known  as  I ought  to  be  ; 
there  is  nothing  historic  about  me  except  making  a road 
to  the  top  of  Mt.  Marcy  from  the  south  and  east. 
Twenty-two  years  ago  I climbed  Old  Tahawus  from  the 
E.  and  descended  it  to  the  S.,  and  from  all  I can  learn  I 
was  the  first  man  that  traveled  either  of  those  routes. 


i44 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Since  then  I have  traveled  them  many  times  and  seen 
many  wonderful  sights,  but  I am  now  55  years  old  and 
about  done  climbing  Mt.  Marcy.  Smith  Beede,  Harvey 
Holt  and  myself,  all  of  Keene  Flats,  are  old  woodsmen, 
hunters  and  fishermen.” 

Mr.  Phelps  furnished  us  much  valuable  information 
relative  to  the  Keene  district,  and  also  a map  of  that 
unsurveyed  section,  drawn  by  himself,  which  displays 
much  artistic  merit. 

Thus  it  is  shown  that  this  secluded  valley,  which  though 
within  easy  reach  of  the  main  avenues  is  but  little 
visited,  is  far  better  entitled  to  examination  than  many 
of  the  resorts  more  widely  known  and  therefore  crowded 
throughout  the  season. 

The  pleasant  boarding  houses  of  N.  M.  Dibble  (Tahawus 
House)  and  H.  Washbond,  at  Keene  Flats,  afford  agree- 
able, home-like  quarters  for  sojourners  in  the  Valley. 
The  former  can  entertain  40  or  50  visitors  ; the  latter 
nearly  as  many.  At  Alma  L.  Beede’s,  too,  (Phineas 
Beede’s  old  place)  20  or  25  boarders  may  be  accommoda- 
ted. By  ascending  a hill  directly  back  of  this  house  a 
mountain  picture  may  be  enjoyed,  sublime  and  impressive 
beyond  expression,  the  grand  masses  of  the  Adirondack  s 
stretching  out  distinctly  visible,  for  a distance  of  more 
than  30  m. 

Bell’s  Hotel  at  Keene  is  a well  finished  and  capacious 
structure  and  offers  good  conveniences  for  a large 
number. 

From  Keene  to  Elizabethtown  the  distance  is  12  m,  the 
route  thither  diverging  at  right  angles  from  the  Valley 
road  about  midway  between  Keene  and  Keene  Flats. 


Descriptive  guide. 


Distances  from  Keene  Flats. 


To  Elizabethtown,  - 12J 

“ Westport,  (Steamboat  Landing),  - - - - 20% 

“ Head  of  Keene  Flats,  (Beede’s),  - - - 2\ 

“ Foot  “ “ “ (Hull's),  - - - - 3 

“ Lower  Ausable  Pond, - - 6 

“ Upper  “ “ 8^ 

* Boreas  “ - - - - - - 15^ 

“ Chapel  or  Echo  “ (JxJ),  -----  4 

“ Bullet  u --------  5i 

“ Mud  (Moore’s)  “ (via  Hunter’s  Pass),  10 

“ “ “ “ ( “ Ausable  Ponds),  16 

“ Clear  (Fiske’s)  “ ( “ “ “ ),  18 

“ “ “ “ ( “ Hunter’s  Pass),  12 

“ Summit  of  Mt.  Marcy  ( “ Ausable  Ponds),  14 
“ “ “ “ “ ( “ John’s  Brook,),  10 

“ u “ Hurricane  Peak,  - - - - 7 

■ “ “ Dix’s  Peak,  (via  Hunter’s  Pass,) 

“ “ “ Hopkins  Peak,  -----  3 

“ “ “ Baxter’s  “ ------  3 

“ “ Camel’s  Hump, 5 

“ “ “ Giant  of  the  Valley,  - - - - 6 

“ White’s  Falls,  - - - - ij 

“ Phelps  “ - - - - - ij 

“ Corinne  “ (30  ft.)  (S.),  ------  i\ 

“ Russell’s  “ ----------  2J 

“ Roaring  Brook  Falls,  - --  --  --  3 

“ Beaver  Meadow,  “ - - - - - - - 4 

“ Minnehaha  “ (beautiful)  (50  ft.)  (S.  W.)  5 

“ Rainbow  a - --  --  --  - 6J 


“ Gothic  Mt.  Cascades,  (Fall  3,000  ft.  in  2 m.)  6J 

9 


45 


miles 

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146 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


“ Big  Falls,  - - - 
“ Bushnell’s  Falls, 

“ Panther  Gorge  Falls, 
“ Hull’s 


4 miles 
7i  “ 


u Upper  Hull’s  “ (N.  W.  (Trap  Dyke),  3^ 


“ Sherburne  " -------  4I 

“ Clifford  “--------7 

“ Stiles  “ (beautiful)  (50  ft.)  (N.  E.;,  7^ 

‘ Gill  Brook  Flume,  - --  --  --  -4 

“ Harvey  White’s  Fish  Ponds,  -----  1^ 

“ Washbond’s  Glen,  - - - - - \ 

“ Hunter’s  Pass,  - - - --  --  --  6 

“ Edmund’s  Ponds’  Pass  - --  --  --  10 

“ Indian  “ - - - - - - - 25 

“ Wilmington  “ - --  --  --20 

“ Keene,  - - - - - - 5 

“ Point  of  Rocks,  ---------  22 

“ Port  Kent,  - --  --  --  --  --35 
“ Plattsburg,  - --  --  --  --  - 42 

“ Wilmington,  - --  --  --  --  -15 

“ Whiteface  Mt.  (base),  - --  --  --  171 

“ Scott’s,  - --  --  --  --  --  -15 

“ John  Brown’s  Grave,  - --  --  --  18 

“ Lake  Placid,  - - - - - -■*  - - - -20 

“ Lower  Saranac  Lake  (Martin’s),  - - - - 2 8 

“ Upper  “ “ (Prospect  House),  - - 4* 

“ “ “ “ (Bartlett’s),  - - - 40 

44  L.  St.  Regis  “ (Paul  Smith’s),  - - - 39 

“ Bloomingdale,  - - - - - - - - - 32 


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Twenty-first — Port  Kent,  15  m.  S.  of  Plattsburg,  oc- 


9 


■ 


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SAW-TEETH  MOUNTAIN— UPPER  AUSABLE  POND. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  *47 

CUpies  a commanding  eminence  nearly  opposite  Burling- 
ton, Vt.,  with  which  it  is  connected  by  steam  ferry.  The 
view  afforded  from  its  elevated  site  is  very  extended  and 
beautiful.  The  route  from  thence  lies  via  Keeseville,  5 m 
S.  W. 

Between  these  2 villages  (3  m from  Port  Kent  and  2 
from  Keeseville)  occurs  the  celebrated  “ Ausable  Chasm,” 
“ or,  as  it  was  formerly  called,  ‘ the  Walled  Banks  of  the 
Ausable,’  situated  on  the  Ausable  R.  The  plank  road 
crosses  a bridge  at  the  head  of  the  gorge,  and  the  chasm, 
along  its  whole  length,  is  easily  accessible  from  the  public 
highway.  Hence,  it  maybe  visited  without  labor  orfatigue. 
This  stupendous  phenomenon  has  been  well  described  as 
‘one  of  the  natural  wonders  of  the  world.’ 

“Miss  Bremer,  the  Swedish  author,  while  gazing  on  the 
scene  with  enraptured  wonder  and  the  delight  of  genius, 
exclaimed,  that  ‘a  visit  to  it  would  reward  a voyage  from 
Europe’.  Lying  almost  upon  the  line  of  one  of  the  most 
thronged  routes  of  pleasure  travel  on  the  continent,  and 
reached  with  every  desirable  facility, — and  in  addition,  as- 
sociated with  numerous  and  varied  other  objects  of  inter- 
est, it  is  surprising  that  any  tourist,  in  pursuit  of  the 
beautiful  and  imposing  in  nature,  should  pass  through 
Lake  Champlain  without  pausing  and  turning  aside  to 
explore  the  ‘ Chasm  of  the  Ausable’.  It  may  be  reached 
by  a pleasant  steamboat  excursion  from  Burlington,  or  a 
delightfnl  ride  of  12  m from  Plattsburg  ; or,  if  preferred, 
the  Whitehall  and  Plattsburg  R.  R.  will  take  the  traveler 
to  the  depot  at  Peru,  from  whence  he  will  be  conveyed  in 
excellent  carriages,  by  the  way  of  Keeseville,  to  the  Chasm, 
or  directly  there,  a distance  ot  about  7 m.  The  usual 
course,  is  to  land  at  Port  Kent  and  proceed  at  once  to  the 
scene,  or  to  ride  to  Keeseville,  and  visit  it  at  greater  lei  s- 


Descriptive  guide. 


148 

ure.  It  will  claim  more  than  a transient  and  cursory  ex- 
amination. The  superior  hotels  at  Keeseville,  the  inter- 
esting objects  of  attraction  in  that  village,  and  the  pleasant 
drives  in  the  vicinity,  would  render  a sojourn  there 
peculiarly  agreeable.  Regular  stage  coaches  meet  the 
steamers  at  Port  Kent,  and  livery  carriages  may  always 
be  ordered  from  Keeseville  to  accommodate  individuals  or 
parties. 

“ The  passage  of  the  Ausable  R along  its  lofty  and  per- 
pendicular banks  and  through  the  Chasm  at  the  high 
bridge,  is  more  familiar  to  the  public  mind  than  most  of 
the  striking  and  picturesque  features  of  that  romantic 
stream.  The  continued  and  gradual  force  of  the  current, 
aided  perhaps  by  some  vast  effort  of  nature,  has  formed  a 
passage  of  the  river  through  the  deep  layers  of  sand-stone 
rock,  which  are  boldly  developed  above  the  village  of 
Keeseville,  and  form  the  embankments  of  the  river,  until 
it  reaches  the  quiet  basin  below  the  high  bridge.  In  the 
vicinity  of  Keeseville,  the  passage  of  the  stream  is  between 
a wall  on  either  side  of  50  ft  in  height  ; leaving  these  the 
river  glides  gently  along  a low  valley,  until  suddenly  hurled 
over  a precipice,  that  creates  a fall  of  singular  beauty. 
Foaming  and  surging  from  this  point,  over  a rocky  bed 
until  it  reaches  the  village  of  Birmingham,  it  there  abrupt- 
ly bursts  into  a dark,  deep  chasm  of  60  ft.  A bridge,  with 
one  abutment  setting  upon  a rock  that  divides  the  stream, 
crosses  the  river  at  the  head  of  this  fall.  This  bridge  is 
perpetually  enveloped  in  a thick  cloud  of  spray  and  mist. 
In  winter,  the  frost  work  encrusts  the  rocks  and  trees,  with 
the  most  gorgeous  fabrics : myriads  of  columns  and 
arches,  and  icy  diamonds  and  stalactites  glitter  in  the  sun- 
beams. In  the  sunshine,  a brilliant  rainbow  spreads  its 
radiant  arc  over  this  deep  abyss.  All  these  elements,  rare 


Descriptive  guide. 


149 


in  their  combination,  shed  upon  this  scene  an  effect  inex- 
pressibly wild,  picturesque  and  beautiful.  The  river 
plunges  from  the  latter  precipice  amid  the  embrasures  of 
the  vast  gulf,  in  which  for  nearly  a mile  it  is  quite  hidden 
to  observation  from  above.  It  pours  in  a wild  torrent,  now 
along  a natural  canal  formed  in  the  rocks  in  almost  perfect 
and  exact  courses,  and  now  darts  madly  down  a precipice. 
The  wall  rises  on  a vertical  face  upon  each  side  from  75 
to  1 50  ft,  whilst  the  width  of  the  chasm  rarely  exceeds  30 
ft,  and  at  several  points  the  stupendous  masonry  of  the 
opposite  walls  approaches  within  8 or  10  ft.  Lateral  fis- 
sures, deep  and  narrow,  project  from  the  main  ravine  at 
nearly  right  angles.  The  abyss  is  reached  through  one  of 
these  crevices  by  a stairway  descending  to  the  water  by 
212  steps.  The  entire  mass  of  the  walls  is  formed  of 
laminae  of  sandstone  rock,  laid  in  such  regular  and  precise 
order  by  the  hand  of  nature  as  to  produce  somewhat  the 
effect  of  a grand  architectural  ruin.  From  the  fissures  of 
these  walls,  pines  and  cedars  project,  and  flinging  their 
dark  branches  out  over  the  chasm,  add  to  the  wildness  of 
a scene  which  rivals  in  beauty  the  famed  Gorge  du  Trient 
of  Switzerland.  The  instrumentality  which  has  produced 
this  wonderful  work  is  a problem  that  presents  a wide  scope 
for  interesting  but  unsatisfactory  speculation. 

“A  report  of  the  State  Geologist  asserts,  ‘ that  near  the 
bottom  of  the  fissure  at  the  High  Bridge,  and  through  an 
extent  of  70  ft,  numerous  specimens  of  a small  bivalvular 
molusca,  or  lingulae/  are  discovered,  and  ‘ that  ripple 
marks  appear  at  the  depth  of  70  or  80  ft. 

“ An  explorer  will  discover  various  points  of  interest  as 
he  passes  along  the  high  wooded  banks,  and  watches  the 
hidden  passage  of  the  water  beneath,  or  examines  the 
fissures,  seams,  and  points  the  rocks  assume.  At  a nar- 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


*$6 

row  part  of  the  gorge,  he  will  be  able  to  trace  the  early 
road  constructed  by  the  pioneer  settlers,  and  which  crossed 
the  chasm  on  a bridge  built  upon  the  bodies  of  trees  felled 
across  it.  At  the  foot  of  the  stairway  is  a platform,  sepa- 
rated by  a narrow,  deep  chasm,  from  what  is  called  the 
Table  Rock.  Through  this  passage,  the  river,  compressed 
into  a deep  and  limited  channel,  rushes  with  the  impetuos- 
ity of  a mill-race.  The  Table  Rock  was  formerly  reached 
by  walking  upon  a log  over  the  chasm,  and  was  a favorite 
but  somewhat  dangerous  resort  of  pic-nic  parties,  until  a 
tragic  event  arrested  the  habit.  A Mr.  Dyer,  an  Episcopal 
minister,  was,  some  years  ago,  in  the  act  of  leading  a lady 
across  this  log,  when  suddenly  losing  his  balance  he  fell 
into  the  rushing  torrent,  and  never  rose  to  the  surface,  nor 
was  his  body  seen  by  the  hofror-stricken  spectators,  until 
days  afterwards,  when  it  was  found  far  below  upon  a shal- 
low in  the  river.  The  beautiful  and  spacious  woods  on  the 
rocks  above,  which  have  been  neatly  prepared  for  the  pur- 
pose, are  usually  the  scene  of  these  festive  gatherings, 
where  often,  on  a bright  summer  day,  several  parties  of 
pleasure  seekers  may  be  seen  enjoying  a healthful  recre- 
ation and  the  beauties  of  the  place.  Each,  unless  they 
choose  to  fraternize,  indistinct,  and  undisturbed  in  its 
movements.  At  low  water,  by  moving  cautiously  below 
the  cliffs  or  clambering  down  the  steep  bank,  the  adven- 
turous explorer  will  gain  several  wierd  and  fantastic 
views.  ‘ The  Devil’s  Oven,’  a deep,  cavernous  recess  in 
the  rock,  is  one  of  these. 

“The  Chasm  House,  in  Birmingham,  near  the  chasm, 
supplies  at  all  hours  good  meals.” — [ Watsons  “Champlain 
Valley  y 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


151 

The  Lake  View  House,  an  elegant  edifice  recently 
erected  by  the  owners  of  the  Ausable  Chasm,  rears  its 
stately  proportions  near  this  Glen,  and  from  its  elevated 
situation  commands  entrancing  views  of  Lake  Cham- 
plain, the  Green  Mountains,  and  the  Adirondacks.  It 
accommodates  100  guests,  and  is  first-class  in  every 
particular. 

In  the  Chasm,  stairways,  bridges,  railings  and  galleries 
have  been  built,  and  other  improvements  made  by  the 
proprietors,  which  together,  enable  the  visitor  to  pass 
through  its  entire  length,  with  the  assistance  of  a boat, 
with  ease  and  in  safety. 

Keeseville  is  an  important  manufacturing  village, 
beautifully  located  on  both  sides  of  the  Ausable.  In  its 
environs  are  many  delightful  drives  to  charming  resorts 
which  we  would  gladly  examine  did  space  allow.  Pros- 
pect Hill  (1  m.,)  Hallock  Hill  (3  m.,)  and  the  romantic 
gorge  known  as  “ Poke  O’Moonshme,”  a pocket  edition 
of  the  Indian  Pass,  7 m.  S.  on  the  road  to  Elizabethtown 
(15  m.  farther  S.)  are  the  most  noteworthy  points. 

The  distance  from  Keeseville  to  Plattsburgh  via  P$ru  is 
16  m.,  and  15  m.  direct.  To  Point  of  Rocks,  where  the 
route  connects  with  the  one  from  Plattsburg,  it  is  an 
enchanting  ride  of  9 m.  through  very  fascinating  scen- 
ery— the  huge  symmetrical  cone  of  Whiteface,  glorious 
in  its  strength  and  beauty,  ever  facing  us  and  forming  an 
imposing  feature  in  the  landscape. 

From  Keeseville  to  Martin’s  via  Keene  Valley,  50  m. 

“ “ “ Wilmington  Pass  45  “ 

“ “ “ “ Franklin  Falls,  46  “ 

“ VanArnam’s“  “ 51  “ 

“ “ Paul  Smith’s  “ 48  “ 

There  is  a.  daily  line  of  easy-riding  four-horse  coaches, 


152 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


during  summer  travel,  from  Port  Kent  to  all  these  points, 
run  by  the  veteran  stageman,  Wm.  Harper. 

The  Ausable  House  is  the  leading  hotel  of  Keesevil’le. 
Long  established,  charmingly  situated,  and  complete  in 
all  its  appointments,  it  is  no  marvel  that  it  has  acquired 
an  enviable  reputation  among  those  who  seek  a delightful 
summer  resort,  or  a favorite  route  to  the  Adirondacks 
Nothing  is  omitted  here  to  secure  the  comfort  and  en- 
joyment of  permanent  or  transient  guests.  Visitors  will 
find  themselves  well  repaid  for  a few  days  or  weeks 
passed  in  this  quiet  and  beautiful  retreat. 

The  Adirondack  Hotel  also  offers  good  inducements 
to  travelers  and  boarders.  All  the  necessary  supplies  and 
articles  of  outfit  may  be  obtained  in  Keeseville  from  the 
following  substantial  houses  : — N.  C.  Boynton,  dealer  in 
Canned  Fruits,  Meats,  Vegetables,  Sauces,  Pickles, 
Crackers,  &C. ; Wm.  H.  Weber,  practical  watchmaker  and 
jeweler,  and  dealer  in  Watches  and  Jewelry;  and  Hall, 
the  bootmaker,  who  will  supply  us  with  prime  Hunting 
Boots  and  Shoes  and  all  other  styles  of  foot-wear  in  use. 

R.  JP.  Fuller’s  Livery  will  furnish  the  best  of  convey-- 
ances  with  careful  drivers  for  excursions  to  any  point 
desired. 

Wm.  Harper,  proprietor  of  the  Stage  Line,  is  also  always 
prepared  to  perform  the  same  office.  (See  Addenda.) 

The  comparative  merits  of  the  Plattsburgh  and  Keese- 
ville routes  are  often  discussed.  The  fact  is  each  has  its 
advantages.  By  following  the  former  we  substitute  20  m. 
of  railroad  traveling  for  13  m.  of  staging.  By  selecting 
the  latter  we  gain  an  opportunity  to  examine  the  Ausable 
Chasm  ; though  this  locality  may  be  conveniently  reached 
by  the  Plattsburgh  route,  by  quitting  the  cars  at  Peru,  6 
m.  N.  So  we  leave  the  matter  for  the  tourist  to  decide. 


Descriptive  guide. 


This  popular  Hotel  has  been  put  in  perfect  order  by  the 
new  proprietor,  and  is  now  in  the  very  best  condition  to 
provide  for  the  accommodation  of  the  traveling  public 
the  present  season.  The  grounds  have  been  improved  ; 
desirable  additions  made  to  the'  furniture  ; and  with 


SPACIOUS  AND  AIRY  ROOMS,  DELIGHTFUL  SURROUNDINGS 
AND  PROMPT  ATTENDANCE,  THE  TRAVELER 
SEEKING  HEALTH  OR  PLEASURE, 


will  here  find  an  agreeable  and  comfortable  resting  -place. 
No  pains  will  be  spared  to  render  a sojourn  most  enjoy- 
able. 


TO  SEASON  BOARDERS 


it  presents  all  the  attractions  that  could  be  reasonably 
desired,  being  located  in  the  midst  of  wild  and  pictur- 
esque scenery,  near  the  banks  of  the  beautiful  Au sable, 
in  a village  of  about  5,000  inhabitants,  with  daily  mails 
and  telegraph.  The  prospect  enjoyed  from  the  piazza 
of  this  house  is  one  of  the  finest  imaginable.  Its  loca- 
tion is  600  feet  above  tide,  and  the  air  from  the  moun- 


KEESEVILLE,  N.  Y. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


tains  ever  in  view,  is  cool  and  invigorating,  and  is  free 
from  black  flies  and  musquitoes. 

The  Boating  on  the  river  is  romantic,  and  Good  Fish- 
ing is  within  easy  distance. 

The  Drives  in  the  immediate  vicinity  possess  the 
greatest  attractions,  the  mountain  and  rural  scenery 
being  tmsurpassed  by  that  of  any  locality  in  the  State , and 
the  points  of  interest  not  a few.  Among  these  ‘ 

THE  WONDERFUL  AUSABLE  CHASM, 

only  two  miles  from  this  House , is  attracting  multitudes 
of  artists  and  lovers  of  the  grand  and  beautiful,  every 
year.  Among  the  objects  worthy  of  inspection  in  and 
around  the  village,  may  be  named  the  Twine,  Horse 
Shoe  Nail  and  Wire  Factories,  and  Rolling  Mills,  to 
which  a visit  will  be  found  most  interesting.  This  is 
the  old  and  favorite  route  to  the  Saranac  Lakes. 

STAGE  COACHES 

always  in  readiness  at  Port  Kent,  Lake  Champlain,  to 
carry  Passengers  to  this  House.  Distance,  4 miles. 

Parties  wishing  to  visit  the 

GREAT  CHASM  OF  THE  AUSABLE,  THE  SARANAC  SPORT- 
ING GROUNDS,  OR  WHITEFACE  MOUNTAIN, 

will  be  furnished  with  appropriate  conveyances  on 

REASONABLE  TERMS. 

Ample  accommodations  for  Private  Carriages. 


G.  FRED.  AVERILL,  Proprietor. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  153 

Twenty-second — From  Westport  (pleasantly  situated  at 
the  head  of  Northwest  Bay,  S.  of  Port  Kent  and  51  m N 
of  Whitehall,)  (Person’s  Plotel,)  to  Elizabethtown,  8 m ; 
Keene,  12  m;  North  Elba,  13  m;  Martin’s,  10  m.  Total, 
43  m* 

Elizabethtown  to  New  Russia,  4 m ; North  Hudson, 
1 6^  m ; Schroon  River  (Root’s),  2\  m.  Total,  23  m. 

Elizabethtown,  the  county  seat  of  Essex  County,  is 
delightfully  situated  in  “ Pleasant  Valley,”  upon  the  banks 
of  the  Boquet  River,  a tributary  of  Lake  Champlain.  It 
is  the  favorite  resort  of  many  people  of  refinement,  also 
of  artists,  who  are  attracted  thither,  by  the  picturesque 
charms  of  the  locality.  After  the  summer  season  com- 
mences, its  hotels  and  even  private  houses  are  often 
thronged  with  visitors  desirous  of  passing  their  vacations 
in  the  quiet  enjoyment  of  mountain  and  valley  scenery. 

Here  in  its  beautiful  cemetery  lie  the  remains  of 
Orlando  Kellogg,  who  controlled  the  county  politics  for  20 
years,  representing  his  constituency  in  Congress  through 
several  terms,  and  being,  above  all,  one  of  the  noblest 
specimens  of  that  “ noblest  work  of  God — an  honest 
man.” 

Elizabethtown  is  surrounded  by  spurs  of  the  great 
Adirondack  Range.* 

On  the  western  borders  of  the  town  are  situated  two  of 
the  most  conspicuous  and  picturesque  summits  of  the 

*Five  distinct  and  parallel  mountain  ranges,  which,  though  bearing  dif- 
ferent names,  are  popularly  designated  “ The  Adirondacks,”  pass  through 
and  are  mostly  comprised  within  the  limits  of  Essex  County,  a district  that 
has  received  the  appropriate  appellation  of  the  “ Switzerland  of  America.” 
In  general  altitude  the  Adirondack  peaks  are  but  little  inferior  to  the  White 
Mountains  of  N.  H.,  while  they  greatly  exceed  them  in  point  of  numbers. 
Each  mountain,  too,  with  few  exceptions,  has  its  lake,  a feature  sadly  lack- 
ing in  the  scenery  of  the  “ White  Hills.” 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


154 

group.  The  southern  of  these  is  also  one  of  the  highest, 
presenting  when  viewed  from  the  Champlain  steamers,  an 
apparent  altitude  scarcely  less  than  that  of  Dix’s  Peak, 
which  is  second  only  to  the  towering  dome  of  Tahawus 
itself.  This  mountain  or  culmination  of  mountains  has 
borne  no  name  until  recently,  when  several  individuals 
christened  it  the  “ Giant  of  the  Valley,”  though  this  title 
properly  belongs  and  was  first  applied  to  Cobble  Hill. 
A perpendicular  precipice  of  700  ft.  lies  on  its  northern 
declivity.  The  other  one  of  the  two  above  referred  to 
stands  about  5 m N.  W.  of  the  village,  in  prominent  view, 
and  is  the  greatly  admired  Hurricane  Peak.  Its  pyramid 
of  naked  rock  rises  with  beautiful  symmetry  from  its 
densely  wooded  base,  which  interlaces  with  a mountainous 
ridge  stretching  far  to  the  N.  but  sinking  rapidly,  and  in 
some  parts  perpendicularly,  into,  the  pass  to  Keene. 

Its  summit  affords  a prospect  unrivaled  by  that  of  any 
other  Adirondack  pinnacle,  unless  we  except  Dix’s  Peak 
or  Whiteface  Mountain. 

Cobble  Hill,  a remarkable  pile  of  rocks  1 m W of  the 
village,  presents  to  the  beholder  a precipice  on  its  eastern 
side  of  at  least  200  ft,  and  a dome-shaped  summit,  crown- 
ed by  a rounded  knob,  forming  altogether  one  of  the  most 
peculiar  and  picturesque  features  in  the  landscape. 

In  the  opposite  direction,  its  precipitous  and  jagged 
sides  lining  the  approach  to  Elizabethtown  from  the  lake, 
rises  Raven  Hill,  sharply  defined  against  the  eastern  sky. 

Wood  Hill,  N.  E.,  with  sloping  flanks  rising  from  the 
very  skirts  of  the  village,  looks  proudly  down  upon  the  two 
charming  valleys  that  unite  at  its  feet. 

These  with  other  mountain  peaks  perhaps  less  impos- 
ing but  not  less  distinguished  for  stately  beauty,  occurring 
in  the  grand  panorama  witnessed  from  the  Mansion 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


155 


House,  give  to  Elizabethtown  a scenic  fascination  hardly 
exceeded  by  any  village  in  the  whole  Adirondack  Region. 
In  the  neighborhood  are  many  delightful  drives,  where  the 
scenery  is  ever  changing  and  full  of  native  loveliness  and 

magnificence. 

The  Valley  of  the  Boquet,  at  the  N.  E.  extremity 
of  which  the  village  stands  and  from  which  it  received  its 
early  designation  of  the  “ Pleasant  Valley,”  extends  S.  W. 
about  8 m and  affords  one  of  the  most  agreeable  drives 
found  in  any  locality.  The  winding  of  the  river  and  the 
road,  varies  the  prospect  with  every  few  rods  of  progress 
till  the  eye  and  mind  are  almost  bewildered  with  the  sudden 
transitions  from  rock  to  dell  ; from  brawling  brook  to 
shady  pool  ; from  precipitous  mountain  to  gentle  slope  ; 
from  the  luxuriant  drapery  of  the  dark  green  woods  to 
waving  cornfields  and  smiling  meadows  ; from  quiet  and 
romantic  homesteads  to  the  unromantic  din  of  the  iron 
forge.  At  its  head,  the  river  in  stormy  passion  rushes 
from  its  mountain  fastnesses  down  through  a narrow 
gorge,  over  an  inclined  plane  of  rough  and  broken  rocks, 
into  the  peaceful  valley  below. 

The  descent  is  considerably  more  than  100  ft,  and  the 
wild  chasm,  whose  tumbling  waters  frighten  the  very 
echoes  with  their  tumultuous  voices,  is  very  attractive  to 
summer  residents  and  pic-nic  parties. 

In  other  directions  there  are  additional  attractions  for 
all  who  love  to  look  upon  the  varied  aspects  of  untamed 
nature.  Some  6 m S.  E.  of  the  village,  Black  Pond 
( 1 x i),  well  stored  with  trout  and  pickerel,  lies  in  sombre 
and  tranquil  repose.  It  offers  equal  pleasure  to  the  angler 
and  to  boating  parties  and  is  frequently  the  chosen 
theater  of  festive  gatherings. 

In  the  S.  W.  part  of  the  town,  New  Pond,  of  about  the 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


156 

same  dimensions,  surrounded  by  mountain  peaks,  and 
irreclaimable  forests,  is  famous  for  the  peculiar  flavor  of  its 
trout  and  for  the  great  number  taken  from  its  depths.  It 
is  a popular  resort  for  citizens  and  summer  visitors,  who 
often  encamp  for  a night  or  more  upon  its  wild  and  soli- 
tary shores. 

For  the  information  of  those  practically  inclined  we 
would  state  that  the  manufacture  of  iron  is  the  leading 
pursuit  in  this  town  ; extensive  beds  of  the  ore  abounding 
within  its  limits.  In  the  S.  eastern  part,  a hill  200  ft  high, 
covering  40  acres,  is  supposed  to  be  nearly  a solid  mass 
of  iron,  except  a slight  covering  of  drift. — [ French's 
Gazetteer. 

A mail  stage  running  from  Schroon  Lake  and  other 
southern  towns  to  Keeseville  (21  m),  passes  through  Eliza- 
bethtown on  alternate  days.  In  either  direction  the  ride, 
as  far  as'  beauty  of  scenery  is  concerned,  is  perfectly 
delightful.  Going  to  the  N.  the  route  lies  through  the 
ravine  of  “ Poke-O-Moonshine”  (14  m),  whose  western 
side  attains  an  elevation  of  3,000  ft  above  the  bottom  of 
the  gorge.  Traveling  southward  we  pass  through  the 
charming  scenery  of  New  Russia,  and  farther  on  pause  to 
enjoy  the  impressive  picture  presented  by  the  western  sky 
against  which  Dix’s  Peak,  Giant  of  the  Valley,  Macomb’s 
Mt.,  Bald  Peak,  and  other  lofty  Titans  uprear  their  mighty 
forms  in  majestic  prominence. 

Where,  the  road  departs  from  the  Boquet  River,  near 
Putnam’s  Mills,  10  or  12  m from  Elizabethtown,  access 
may  be  gained  to  the  Hunter’s  Pass  by  following  the  course 
of  the  stream  N.  W.  a few  miles.  Pursuing  our  way 
we  soon  reach  the  large  iron  works  at  Dead  Water,  and 
anon  the  little  hamlet  of  North  Hudson,  and  Root’s  place 
at  Schroon  River,  from  which  Mud  and  Clear  Ponds,  and 
the  great  natural  wonders  near  them  are  visited. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


]57 


The  two  leading  hotels  of  Elizabethtown  are  thorough  and 
complete  in  all  their  appointments  and  are  supplied  with 
all  the  modern  elegancies.  The  Valley  House,  located  at 
the  foot  of  the  plateau  and  near  the  center  of  the  village, 
provides  for  th(?  wants  of  40  or  50  guests. 

The  Mansion  House,  from  which  we  have  beautiful 
mountains  views,  furnishes  entertainment  to  120  visitors, 
and  its  host  and  hostess  are  unremitting  in  their  efforts 
to  render  a residence  with  them  most  agreeable  and  home- 
like. A number  of  capable  and  trustworthy  guides  are 
residents  of  this  town.  We  cannot  refrain  from  naming  two 
of  them,  Elijah  Simons  and  Samuel  Dunning,  as  careful, 
efficient  and  most  experienced  in  the  business — perfectly 
familiar  with  the  lake  and  mountain  country,  its  forest 
trails  and  all  its  modes  of  travel,  as  well  as  the  needs  and 
requirements  of  tourists  therein.  Through  the  last  30 
years  they  have  both  been  accustomed  to  hunt  and  trap  in 
the  recesses  of  the  Wilderness,  and  are  personally  acquain  ted 
with  nearly  every  feature  of  the  landscape,  whether  it  be 
wonderful  height,  hidden  cascade,  obscure  pass  or  rare 
fountain  of  waters  ; and  those  submitting  to  their  guidance 
may  be  conducted  from  this  place  to  nearly  every  interest- 
ing locality  in  the  Adirondack  Regibn. 

The  “ VaHey  ” is  easily  accessible  to  tourists  approach- 
ing by  way  of  Lake  Champlain.  Steamers  arrive  at 
Westport  from  the  N.  and  S.  several  times  a day,  and  are 
there  met  by  a line  of  post  coaches  which  convey  passen- 
gers to  Elizabethtown  twice  daily  during  the  summer  and 
fall  seasons,  and  also  afford  easy  and  pleasant  transporta- 
tion from  hence  to  Lower  Saranac  Lake,  via  those  inter- 
esting resorts,  Keene  and  North  Elba.  Stages  depart  at 
7 A.  M.  and  arrive  at  Martin’s  at  5 P.  M. — fe~e  from 
Westport  $ 4,00 . 


158 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


This  is  undoubtedly  the  shortest  and  most  picturesque 
avenue  from  Lake  Champlain  to  the  Saranac  Lakes.  In 
few  journeys  of  similar  length  do  we  meet  with  so  many 
noble  pictures  of  mountain  scenery.*  , 

Arriving  at  Keene  we  have  a choice  of  two  routes — 
one,  the  old  road,  leading  over  a spur  of  Pitch  Off  Mount- 
ain (Chimney  Hill)  and  occupying  6 m of  ascent  and 
descent ; the  other,  more  recently  constructed,  passing 
through  the  extremely  romantic  defile  between  Pitch  Off 
and  Long  Pond  Mountains  and  uniting  with  the  former  a 
short  distance  E.  of  Scott’s.  Stages  usually  travel  the 
new  road,  though  the  distance  is  2 m greater.  (Keene  to 
Scott’s  by  old  road,  io  m ; by  new  road,  12  m).  Within 
this  narrow  and  remarkable  gorge,  walled  in  by  towering 
cliffs  whose  frowning  heights  (from  300  to  1,000  ft.)  in- 
spire the  beholder  with  sentiments  of  profoundest  awe 
and  admiration,  lie  the  Edmund  Ponds — worthy  rivals  in 
wildness  and  beauty  of  the  lovely  Ausable  Ponds,  and  like 
them  affluents  of  the  K.  Ausable.  They  were  formerly 
embraced  in  one  sheet  which  was  then  known  as  “ Long 
Pond  but  several  years  since  it  was  divided  into  two 
distinct  parts  by  a tremendous  avalanche  that  swept  down 
the  side  of  the  S.  E.  peak.  A short  and  narrow  stream 
only  now  connects  them.  The  larger  pond  has  recen  tly 
been  named  the  “Adirondack  Lake,”f  and  we  learn  that 
a hotel  is  soon  to  be  erected  near  its  shores.  The  road 

*For  the  description  of  Elizabethtown  and  its  environs  by  which  our 
readers  have  obtained  glimpses  of  the  most  interesting  features  of  its  sur- 
roundings  and  connecting  routes,  we  are  indebted  to  the  pen  of  an  accom’ 
plished  correspondent  of  that  place,  who  possesses  a fine  taste  for  natural 
beauty. 

fit  seems  a pity,  since  names  are  now  being  adopted  permanently  for  a 
region  soon  to  be  opened  to  the  world  of  travelers,  that  the  largest  and  most 
romantic  of  all  these  lakes  could  not  bear  the  name  “ Adirondack.” 


descriptive  guide. 


for  several  miles  picturesquely  winds  along  the  margin 
of  these  ponds  and  around  the  base  of  Pitch  Off  Mount- 
ain. “ Near  these  sheets— 4 m from  Scott’s — is  a spot: 
that  will  repay  a prolonged  inspection.' 

“In  the  bed  of  a little  brook  which  leaps  down  the  slide 
formed  by  the  avalanche,  innumerable  minerals  sparkle 
and  glow  in  every  direction.  High  up  the  precipice  occur 
a series  of  caves,  which  are  the  deposits  of  varied  gems  and  j 
minerals  and  in  beauty  and  variety  almost  rival  the  stories 
of  eastern  caverns.  Here  is  found  ’calcareous  spar  of 
various  colors,  and  crystals  of  epidote,  coccoline  and  horn- 
blend.  The  scientific  explorer  would  enjoy  in  this  local- 
ity a rich  and  delightful  field.”— [Watson. 

Emerging  from  amid  the  astonishing  spectacles  of  the 
Pass,  we  soon  reach  the  “ South  Meadows,”  a level  tract  of 
land  embracing  perhaps  1,000  acres,  densely  covered  with 
wild  grass.  Continuing  our  course  the  scene  changes  and 
again  we  enter  the  realm  of  stately  loveliness — of  savage 
sublimity. 

Marcy,  McIntyre,  Colden,  Wallface,  Seward,  Whiteface, 
and  many  others  of  the  kingly  host,  “grouped  into  grand- 
eur and  mellowed  into  beauty,  rise  in  full  royalty  before 
us.”  Here  on  these  “ Plains  of  Abraham,”  (as  this  high 
plateau  is  sometimes  termed)  in  the  midst  of  these  Alpine 
solitudes  is  placed  the  isolated  habitation  of  Robert 
G.  Scott,  and  here  in  constant  view  of  the  'colossal 
watch-towers  which  with  one  sweep  of  magnificence 
sublimely  indent  the  horizon’s  circle,  has  this  venerable 
patriarch  of  the  mountains  had  his  dwelling  place 
for  nearly  60  years.  At  this  “ smiling  oasis  in  a 
wilderness  waste,”  visitors  will  be  furnished  with  humble 
but  comfortable  accommodations  and  also  conveyances. 

Like  Keene  and  Elizabethtown,  Scott’s  affords  an  ad- 


i6o 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


mirable  center  from  which  innumerable  excursions  may  be 
made.  From  this  locality  are  visited  Whitefa.ce  Mt.,  Wil- 
mington Notch,  Mt.  Marcy,  the  Indian  Pass  and  many 
minor  objects  of  interest.  To  Blin’s  Clearing  the  distance 
is  l m by  wagon  road  ; from  thence  a good  trail  extends 
through  the  forest  9 ms.  W.  to  the  Indian  Pass,  and 
another  twice  the  distance  S.  to  the  base  of  Mt.  Marcy, 
from  which  it  is  4 m to  the  summit  with  a comparatively 
easy  ascent. 

Clear  Pond  is  reached  by  diverging  from  the  path  to  the 
Indian  Pass.  Distance  from  Scott’s,  4 m.  It  is  thus  fitly 
described  in  Street’s  charming  volume,  ‘‘The  Indian  Pass 

“Among  the  beautiful  waters  of  the  Wilderness  this  heart- 
shaped  pond  is  one  of  the  most  beautiful.  Sparkling  like  a 
gem  in  its  depth  of  woods,  it  rejoices  in  its  loveliness, 
only  for  the  most  part  in  behalf  of  the  fawns  and  dryads. 
Solitude  reigns  generally  supreme,  broken  alone  by  the 
fish-hawk,  as  he  dips  his  dappled  wing  for  his  prey,  or  the 
deer,  as  it  steals  to  the  brink  to  taste  the  molten  silver. 
And  what  a picture  the  sunset  painted  ! Whereas  two 
mountains  were  depicted  in  Lake  Colden,  no  less  than 
four  found  here  their  photographed  features.  To  the  W. 
Mt.  McIntyre  was  reflected  ; at  the  S.  frowned  Mt.  Col- 
den ; in  the  E.  old  Tahawus  painted  its  black  form  ; while 
‘ The  Bear,’  threw  its  sable  counterfeit  at  the  N.  How 
beautiful,  grand  and  impressive  ! This  little  mirror  in 
the  woods,  scarce  a half  mile  broad,  by  the  same  distance 
in  length,  holding  in  its  heart  four  frowning  monsters, 
three  of  them  the  sublimest  of  the  Wilderness,  of  which 
one  was  among  the  stateliest  in  the  nation.  How  like  the 
human  heart  enshrining  grand  objects  in  its  small  receptacle, 
and  showing  thus  its  lofty  capabilities,  as  did  Napoleon, — 


The  ebbs  and  flows  of  whose  single  soul 
Were  tides  to  the  rest  of  mankind,”’ 


DIVISION  IV. 


INTO  THE  ADIRONDACK,  HUDSON  RIVER,  RAQUETTE  AND. 

LONG  LAKE  REGIONS. 

Crown  Point , Ticonderoga , Caldwell  and  Saratoga 

Springs  afford  eligible  avenues  to  these  sections. 

Twenty-third — Crown  Point,  at  the  mouth  of  Putnam’s 
Creek,  18  m S.  of  Westport,  was  the  site  of  important 
military  operations  during  the  old  French  and  Revolution- 
ary wars.  The  ruins  of  the  old  fort,  situated  on  a neck  of 
land  running  into  the  lake  6 m N.  W.,  and  those  of  the 
fortress  of  Ticonderoga  9 m S.,  both  accessible  by  the 
Whitehall  and  Plattsburg  R.  R. — also  “ Put’s  Oak,”  ij  m 
W.,  are  frequently  visited  by  tourists  as  interesting  objects 
of  national  history. 

Gunnison’s  Hotel,  with  a capacity  for  60  guests  and  its 
most  delightful  situation,  is  a popular  sojourn  for  transient 
visitors. 

Crown  Point  is  the  E.  terminus  of  the  old  State  road 
commencing  at  Carthage.  To  Hammond’s  Corners  the 
distance  is  1 m,  (Bennett’s  Hotel,  a well  known  house, 
of  excellent  reputation)  ; Crown  Point  Center,  ij  m, 
(Ingle’s  Hotel);  Bailey’s  Hotel,  2^  m ; Thompson’s*  2 m; 

* About  6 m W.  of  Thompson’s  a road  diverges  1 and  joins  the  Ticon- 
deroga route  at  Paradox  Lake  ; distant  from  Crown  Poin  13  to  15  m. 

IO 


1 62 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Schroon  River  (Root’s),  12  m;  Fenton’s,  5 m;  Bullard’s  ot 
French’s,  on  Boreas  River,  6 m ; Tahawus  (Lower  Iron 
Works),  8 m ; Newcomb,  7%  m ; Long  Lhke  Village,  13  m ; 
Total,  58J  m. 

The  route  for  a large  portion  of  this  distance  after  leav- 
ing Schroon  River,  passes  through  a section  noted  for  its 
wild  sublimity.  Spurs  of  the  Adirondack  Mountains  are 
crossed,  rendering  the  road  quite  uneven  but  at  the  same 
time  affording  views  of  surpassing  beauty  and  grandeur, 
wmch  often  burst  upon  the  eye  with  startling  abruptness. 

Passengers  are  conveyed  by  stages  to  Crown  Point  Cen- 
ter ; from  thence  the  locations  named  must  be  reached  by 
private  conveyances  which  may  always  be  obtained  at 
Crown  Point,  Crown  Point  Center  and  Root’s. 

“Root’s !”  Who  among  Adirondack  tourists  is  unfamiliar 
with  this  time-honored  name  ? Perfectly  home-like  in  all 
its  appointments,  this  old  established  “ Sportsman’s 
Retreat  ” affords  a most  agreeable  resting  place  for  the 
weary  traveler  ; 25  or  30  guests  are  furnished  with  pleasant 
rooms,  and  supplies  are  procured  at  “ Root’s  Store.” 

Excellent  fishing  is  found  in  the  “ W.  Sturtevant 
Branch,”  a stream  flowing  from  the  Hunter’s  Pass  through 
Mud  Pond,  passing  S.  W.,  receiving  the  waters  of  Clear 
Pond  on  the  way,  through  its  J m outlet,  and  uniting  with 
the  Schroon  River  1 m W.  of  the  inn.  This  river  flowing 
soutbernly,  enters  Schroon  Lake  and  departs  from  thence 
at  its  S.  extremity  for  the  Hudson  River. 

Root’s  Mountain,  near  by,  is  often  ascended  and  com- 
mands a varied  prospect  of  dense  woodland,  cultivated 
fields  and  towering  peaks. 

At  Fenton’s  Tavern,  a comfortable  and  picturesque 
situation,  a new  route  to  Mt.  Marcy  diverges  N.  at  right 
angles  as  follows : — Clear  Pond,  3 m ; Mud  Pond,  2 m ; 
Mt.  Marcy,  8f  m. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUiDE. 


163 


These  two  ponds,  each  about  1 x are  among  the  love- 
liest of  the  Adirondack  waters — indeed  almost  peerless  in 
their  majestic  surroundings.  Conspicuous  in  the  grand  pic- 
ture here  enjoyed  are  Dix’s  Peak,  Macomb’s  Mt.,  Nipple 
Top  and  the  Boreas  Spires.  By  ascending  one  of  the 
neighboring  heights,  the  entire  Adirondack  group  is 
brought  into  magnificent  display. 

Rufus  Fiske’s  secluded  “ Lake-side  Inn,”  at  Clear  Pond, 
can  accommodate  about  40  visitors.  John  Moore,  at  his 
charming  sylvan  resort  at  Mud  Pond,  can  provide  for  an 
equal  number.  Trout  fishing  and  deer  hunting  claimed  to 
be  most  excellent.  At  Moore’s  place  the  wagon  road  ter- 
minates, but  through  his  praiseworthy  exertions  and  those 
of  Samuel  Sanders,  aided  by  the  purses  of  the  inhabitants 
of  the  town  of  Schroon,  a bridle  path  has  been  constructed 
to  the  base  of  Mt.  Marcy.  It  crosses  Ausable  River  (5 J m 
distant)  1 m above  the  Upper  Ausable  Pond. 

Moore’s  is  the  nearest  habitable  point  to  this  mountain, 
excepting  perhaps  Keene  Flats,  and  this  is  the  only 
method  that  enables  the  tourist  to  ride  to  the  very  foot  of 
“Old  Tahawus.” 

The  opening  of  a good  trail  to  the  top  of  Dix’s  Peak,  3 
m N.  E.  of  Mud  Pond,  is  also  due  to  the  enterprise  of  the 
same  parties.  The  prospect  enjoyed  from  the  summit  is 
one  of  the  very  grandest  that  any  of  the  range  presents 
and  is  richly  worth  the  exertion  required  for  its  attain- 
ment. 

Descending  the  mountain  and  passing  onward  a short  • 
distance  we  enter  the  “ Hunters  Pass”  or  “ Gorge  of  the 
Dial,”  so  often  named  in  preceding  pages. 

This  imposing  ravine  is  bounded  by  the  stupendous 
walls  of  Dix’s  Peak  on  the  S.  E.  side  and  those  of  the  Dial 
or  Nipple  Top  on  the  other.  These  mountains  are  classed 


164  DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 

among  the  loftiest  of  the  Adirondack  Range,  and  here  the 
perpendicular  declivity  of  their  sides,  stretching  away  for 
a distance  of  half  a mile,  attains  an  altitude  of  from  200  to 
500  ft.  “Its  walls,”  says  the  veteran  hunter  Elijah  Simons, 
“ are  not  as  high  as  those  of  the  Indian  Pass,  in  sheer 
ascent,  but  they  are  still  as  green  as  God  made  them,  and 
have  not  been  desolated  by  fires  as  have  the  sides  of  Wall- 
face  and  McIntyre.” 

Nature  seldom  displays  a more  amazing  spectacle  of 
gloomy,  savage,  solitary  grandeur.  Two  lovely  rivers,  the 
Schroon  and  Boquet,  taking  their  rise  here,  course  their 
way  in  opposite  directions  through  this  narrow  gorge,  (3  to 
10  rods  wide).  The  Pass  is  sometimes  visited  from  Root’s, 
distant  11  m via  North  Hudson. 

With  this  digression  we  resume  the  main  route.  One  m 
E.  of  the  Lower  Iron  Works,  on  the  highway,  lives  the 
veteran  pioneer  among  living  guides,  the  “mighty  hunter,” 
immortalized  in  song  by  the  poet,  Charles  Fenno  Hoffman, 
in  prose  by  Joel.  T.  Headley,  and  by  other  distinguished 
writers, — John  Cheney.  Here  this  forest  nobleman,  still 
stalwart  and  brave  at  the  ripe  age  of  72,  has  occupied  his 
sequestered  abode  through  the  past  36  years.  His  future 
biographer  will  find  no  lack  of  material  in  filling  a large 
volume  with  a narration  of  the  numerous  adventures  and 
wonderful  experience  that  fill  his  eventful  life.  His  many 
admirers  will  be  happy  to  learn  that  hereafter  he  and  his 
son  assume  the  proprietorship  of  the  Tahawus  Hotel  at 
* the  village,  and  to  use  his  own  language,  “ they  will  do 
their  best  to  accommodate  sportsmen  and  boarders  from 
the  cities.”* 

At  the  Lower  Works  we  will  again  diverge  from  the 

*Two  and  one-half  m N.  of  his  present  home  are  two  ponds,  I m in 
length,  called  Birch  and  Trout  Ponds. 


descriptive  guide. 


165 

regular  avenue  N.W.  to  examine  one  of  the  most  interesting 
localities  in  this  region.  Passing  over  a comfortable  wagon 
road,  through  a narrow  valley  skirted  on  opposite  sides  by 
Lake  Sanford  and  a mountainous  ridge  (11  m),  we  arrive 
at  the  Adirondack  Upper  Iron  Works.  The  same  point  is 
accessible  by  water  ; outlet  (Hudson  River)  5 m ; (here 
enters  the  Opalescent,  wildest  of  rivers,  after  its  turbulent 
flow  from  its  mountain  girded  home,  Lake  Avalanche,  its 
bed  glowing  with  opals,  its  scenery  richly  abounding  in  its 
Flume  and  other  romantic  wonders) ; thence  Lake  Sanford, 
5 m ; inlet,  1 m.  Either  route  presents  mountain  pictures 
of  infinite  grandeur  to  the  wondering  eye.  Tahawus  and 
many  members  of  his  royal  court, 

l 

“ are  piled 

Heavily  against  the  horizon  of  the  north, 

Like  summer  thunder- clouds.” 

Astonishment  possesses  us  when  we  find  these  Iron 
Works  a deserted  village,  as  silent  as  the  walls  of  Pompeii. 
Of  all  the  structures  standing  here,  comprising  14  or  15 
dwelling-houses,  a church,  school-house,  hotel,  store, 
warehouses,  shops,  forges,  etc.,  once  teeming  with  life 
and  activity,  none  are  now  occupied,  none  are  employed, 
save  a solitary  habitation  in  which  Mr.  Hunter  and  his 
family,  intelligent  Scotch  people,  have  dwelt  for  15  years, 
sole  occupants  of  the  hamlet, — “ monarchs  of  all  they 
survey.” 

Notwithstanding  the  extreme  richness  and  inexhaustible 
abundance  of  the  ore  existing  hereabouts — these  beds 
being  among  the  most  extensive  in  the  world,  yet  the 
enormous  expense  attending  the  transportation  of  the  iron 
50  m over  corduroy  roads  to  Lake  Champlain,  more  than 
counter-balanced  the  profits  of  the  business,  and  hence 


I 


1 66  DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 

the  abandonment  <5f  the  enterprise  and  the  utter  desertion 
of  the  village. 

The  solid  natural  iror  dam  near  here  over  which  pours 
the'  Hudson,*  is  one  of  the  most  marvelous  novelties  in 
Nature’s  museum  and  excites  the  wonder  and  admiration 
of  the  beholder.  It  is  said  that  this  curiosity  led  to  the 
discovery  of  the  immense  mineral  wealth  existing  here, 
and  to  the  subsequent  settlement  of  the  place. 

“In  1826,  Messrs.  David  Henderson,  McMartin,  Mc- 
Intyre and  others,  owned  and  were  carrying  on  iron  works 
in  North  Elba,  near  the  bridge  which  crosses  the  Chub 
River,  on  the  road  to  Lake  Placid.  One  day  an  Indian  of 
the  St.  Francis  tribe  visited  these  works  and  showed  Mr. 
Henderson  a piece  of  iron  ore,  which  he  said  came  from  a 
place  where  ‘ water  run  over  dam  ; me  find  plenty  all 
same.’  The  services  of  this  Indian  were  secured  to  con- 
duct Mr.  Henderson  and  his  partners  to  the  place  where 
he  found  the  ore.  They  entered  the  pathless  forest,  went 
through  the  Indian  Pass,  and  during  the  second  day 
arrived  at  the  present  site  of  this  deserted  village.  They 
found  the  story  of  their  Indian  guide  true.  The  discoverers 
of  this  bed  of  iron  ore  returned  to  North  Elba  and 
repaired  directly  to  Albany,  where  they  purchased  the 
large  tract  of  land  embracing  the  principal  beds  of  iron 
ore  in  this  region.  A road  was  subsequently  cut  through 
the  wilderness,  so  as  to  reach  Lake  Champlain,  and  the 
Upper  Adirondack  Iron  Works  commenced.” — [N.  A.  C. 

A trail  leads  to  the  Upper  Ausable  Pond,  8 or  10  m 
distant. 

S.  W.  of  the  “Works,”  Hunter’s  Pond  and  Lake  Hark- 
ness,  connecting  with  Lake  Henderson,  lie  in  beauty  and 
solithde.  Lake  Andrew  most  famous  for  trout  is  about  4 

* Locally  known  as  the  Adirondack  River. 


PITCH-OFF  MOUNTAIN — EDMOND’S  POND. 


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DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  1 6jJ 

m S.  W.  The  noted  Preston  Ponds  are  reached  by  path 
\ m N ; thence  boating  over  nearly  the  whole  length  of 
beautiful  Lake  Henderson,  2 m ; (looking  toward  the 
N.  E.  a grand  spectacle  here  greets  the  eye,  of  which 
Mts.  Henderson,  McMartin  and  the  Indian  Pass  are  the 
most  imposing  features)  ; thence  by  good  ascending; 
path  2 m N.  W.  These  three  secluded  lakelets  are  set. 
in  the  midst  of  the  most  impressive  scenery.  Those 
Heaven  aspiring  pinnacles,  Henderson,  Santanoni,  Seward, 
Wallface,  &c.,  stand  on  every  side  in  stern  and  solemn 
majesty.  In  our  conversations  with  Mitchell  Sabbattis, 
he  thus  aptly  and  with  aboriginal  brevity  expresses  him-# 
self  in  reference  to  the  section  embracing  Lakes  Sanford 
and  Henderson  and  the  Preston  Ponds.  “ It  is  a wild 
looking  place  ; mountains  thick  all  around  you.  Any  one 
who  don’t  want  to  see  them  must  look  right  straight  up !” 

These  ponds  vary  from  i to  I m in  length,  are  only 
some  20  r apart  and  are  connected  by  navigable  inlets. 
They  are  especially  famed  as  trout  resorts.  Cold  River, 
their  outlet,  is  tributary  to  the  Raquette.  The  distance 
from  them  to  Mt.  Seward  is  6 m. 

The  Adirondack  or  Indian  Pass,  5 m N.  E.  of  the  Iron 
Works,  is  more  readily  accessible  from  this  locality  than 
from  any  other  habitable  point.  The  well  beaten  pathway 
leading  to  it  is  traveled  without  much  exertion. 

We  will  not  pause  here  to  describe  fully  this  “ splendid 
wonder,”  this  great  natural  phenomenon.  Headley,  Street 
and  Watson,  and  other  brilliant  writers,  have  so  often  and 
so  worthily  celebrated  its  marvels  that  no  farther  testi- 
mony in  its  behalf  is  needed  at  our  hands.  Enough  to 
say  that  it  is  a tremendous  gorge  8 to  10  r wide,  formed 
by  the  parallel  sloping  heights  of  Mt.  McIntyre  and  the 
perpendicular  precipices  of  Wallface  Mountain  uplifted  to 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


1 68 

an  altitude  of  500  to  1,400  ft.  and  embracing  an  extent  of 
more  than  a mile.  Its  fl  or  is  thickly  strewn  with  enor- 
mous masses  of  rocks  hurled  into  it  from  the  impending 
cliffs,  probably  by  the  throes  of  an  earthquake  ; as  within 
the  memory  of  Mitchell  Sabbattis  this  region  has  been 
shaken  by  one  of  these  terrible  convulsions. — [Lossing. 

Yawning  caverns  have  thus  been  created  in  which  solid 
ice  exists  throughout  the  year  and  which  have  sufficient 
capacity  for  sheltering  a thousand  men  within  their  gloomy 
depths.  Awful  in  its  vastness,  supreme  in  its  sublimity,  it 
is  difficult  to  imagine  any  scene  at  once  more  terrible  in 
its  silence;  more  chaotic  in  its  desolation  ; more  “savage” 
‘in  its  magnificence.  Here  side  by  side,  2,000  ft.  above 
tide  water,  the  noble  Hudson  and  the  impetuous  Ausable 
are  infant  twins  in  the  same  rough  cradle.  The  first 
issuing  from  hence,  passes  through  Henderson  and  San- 
ford Lakes  and  rolls  onward  in  its  passage  of  beauty  and 
grandeur  to  the  broad  Atlantic.  The  other  setting  out  on 
its  more  romantic  and  not  less  beautiful  career,  frequently 
sweeping  along  with  the  irresistible  power  of  an  avalanche, 
at  last  finds  its  resting  place  in  the  bosom  of  the  comely 
Champlain. 

Mt.  Marcy  is  also  accessible  from  the  “Works”  by  a 
good  footway  extending  N.  E.,  distance  12  m.  Lake 
Colden  (6  m),  Avalanche  Lake  (7  m),  and  Calamity  Pond, 
distinguished  for  their  surpassing  loveliness  and  for  the 
wild  and  majestic  scenery  that  encompasses  them,  are 
passed  on  the  way. 

Mt.  McMartin,  which  rises  boldly  from  Avalanche  Lake, 
is  nearly  bisected  from  top  to  bottom  by  an  enormous 
“ Trap  Dyke.” — [Emmons. 

Calamity  Pond  was  fitly  named  from  a sad  event  that 
happened  there. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


169 

In  this  remote  place,  amid  these  more  than  Alpine  soli- 
tudes, a unique  and  beautiful  monument  has  been  erected 
whose  inscription  tells  thus  its  brief  but  touching  story  : — 
“ Erected  by  filial  affection  to  the  memory  of  our  aear 
father,  David  Henderson,  who  accidentally  lost  his  life  on 
this  spot,  by  the  premature  discharge  of  a pistol,  3d  Sept. 
1845. 

“ How  often  has  the  wild  wolf  made  his  lair  beside  it  ! 
How  often  the  savage  panther  glared  at  its  beautiful  pro- 
portions and  wondered  what  object  met  his  blazing  eye- 
balls !” — [Street. 

A most  difficult  portion  of  the  route  lies  between 
Calamity  Pond  and  Lake  Colden.  Of  the  glories  awaiting 
the  beholder  at  the  summit  of  Tahawus  we  need  not  speak. 
As  with  the  Indian  Pass  so  with  the  mighty  monarch  of 
the  cloud  region.  Most  of  our  readers  have  acquired 
sufficient  familiarity  with  the  gorgeous  panorama  here 
unfolded,  from  perusing  the  fascinating  descriptions  given 
by  the  writers  just  named. 

Twenty -fourth — Ticonderoga,24  m N.  of  Whitehall,  the 
site  of  the  old  fort  by  that  name,  and  the  scene  of  a cele- 
brated revolutionary  conflict  familiar  to  every  American, 
is  a delightful  point  of  entrance  to  Lake  George  (4  m)  as 
well  as  to  the  great  Wilderness.  Mt.  Defiance  is  a prom- 
inent object  in  the  surrounding  landscape.  The  Pavilion 
Hotel,  situated  on  the  shore  of  the  lake,  is  a charming 
resort  for  the  way-worn  traveler. 

Lrom  Ticonderoga  to  Long  Pond  (2  x f ),  an  excellent 
fishing  locality,  it  is  ii|  m;  thence  to  Paradox  Lake 
(6  x i|),  1 \ m;  Schroon  Lake,  9 m.  Total,  22  m.  Lrom  Par- 
adox Lake  (Brott’s)  to  Schroon  River  (Root’s),  to  m.  From 
thence  the  route  has  already  been  given.  Near  the  E, 


i ;o 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


extremity  of  Paradox  Lake,  on  the  main  road,  Brott’s 
Hotel  is  pleasantly  located  and  affords  ample  conveniences 
for  25  or  30  visitors.  The  route  from  thence  to  Schroon 
passes  near  the  banks  of  the  lovely  lake.  Schroon  Lake,* 
the  “ Lake  Como”  of  our  country,  and  scarcely  excelled 
in  beauty  by  any  other  sheet,  is  9 m.  in  length  with  an 
average  width  of  2 m.  Near  the  head  of  the  lake,  on  a 
commanding  elevation  which  delightfully  overlooks  its 
broad  expanse  and  the  quiet  village  (Schroon  Lake)  nest- 
ling at  its  base,  stands  the  large  and  beautiful  edifice 
known  as  the  Ondawa  Hotel — in  its  every  appointment 
and  convenience  a marvel  of  excellence  and  complete- 
ness. Situated  in  the  midst  of  the  most  picturesque 
scenery,  with  croquet  park,  billiard  hall,  brass  and  quadrille 
band,  constantly  at  hand  or  in  attendance,  it  is  a matter 
of  no  astonishment  that  this  fascinating  retreat  should  be 
extensively  sought  by  admirers  of  balmy  air,  landscape 
beauty  and  elegant  quarters.  The  house  in  its  capacious 
and  airy  rooms  will  accommodate  100  guests.  The 
Taylor,  the  Leland  and  the  Wickham  Houses,  all 
splendid  structures,  are  also  located  here,  and  each 
luxuriously  provides  for  the  wants  of  100  to  125  people. 
There  is  a large  hotel,  too,  at  Mill  Brook,  6 m.  S.  on  the 
E.  shore  of  the  lake,  called  the  Well’s  House.  (See 
Addenda ) 

Schroon  Lake  Village  is  most  conveniently  reached 
from  Lake  Champlain  by  R.  R.  from  Crown  Pt.  to 
Hammond’s  Furnace  ; thence  by  Wm.  G.  Baldwin’s  daily 
line  of  excellent  coaches  (14  m.  ) ; and  from  the  Adiron- 
dack R.  R.  by  stage  from  Riverside  to  Pottersville  (6  m.) 

* A curious  phenomenon  occurs  in  this  lake.  Inflammable  gas  in  large 
quantities  rises  to  its  surface,  and  in  the  winter,  through  openings  in  the  ice,  it 
issues  in  large  volume,  which,  when  ignited,  produces  a brilliant  flame  many 
feet  in  height. 


ONDAWA  HOUSE. 
Schroon  Lake,  N.  Y.) 


FORT  WILLIAM  HENRY  HOTEL,  LAKE  GEORGE. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  IJl 

pleasantly  situated  at  the  foot  of  the  lake  ; thence  by 
stage  along  the  border  of  the  lake,  9 m,  or  by  the  splendid 
little  steamer  “ Libbie,’.’  (or  the  larger  boat  just  completed) 
which  makes  two  daily  trips  each  way.  The  sports 
man  as  well  as  the  pleasure  seeker  will  find  enough  to 
occupy  his  time  while  tarrying  in  this  vicinity.  The  lake, 
which  is  partially  bounded  by  a dense  forest,  is  richly 
stocked  with  bass,  pickerel  and  trout — the  latter  of  unusual 
size.  Other  kinds  of  fish  too  are  taken  in  great  numbers. 

Goose  Pond  (70  acres),  2\  m N.  E.  of  the  village,  is 
remarkable  for  the  marvelous  clearness  and  purity  of  its 
waters,  surpassing  in  this  respect,  it  is  claimed,  those  of 
Lake  George,  which,  it  is  known,  have  been  employed  as 
“ holy  water.”  Crane  Pond  (2  x f£),  lying  ^ m N.  E.  of 
Goose  Pond,  fur  rushes  an  abundance  of  pickerel,  the 
largest  of  which  weigh  25  or  30  pounds.  E.  of  this  2 m 
lies  Gull  Pond  (12  acres).  Lake  Pharaoh  (60  acres),  long 
but  very  narrow,  is  6 m E.  of  the  village — and  laving  the 
base  of  Mt.  Pharaoh.  One  mile  S.  E.  of  this  is  Whortle- 
berry Pond  (35  acres).  Brant  Lake  (5  x f)  lies  S.  E.  of 
Schroon  9 m.  Bartlett’s  Pond  (15  acres),  W.  of  the  vil- 
lage, and  Roger’s  Pond  (i-J  x f),  likewise  W.  3 m,  furnish 
fine  trouting.  N.  of  these  waters  f m is  North  Pond 
(f  x Deer  hunting  is  said  to  be  excellent  at  all  these 
resorts,  especially  at  Goose  and  Gull  Ponds,  and  hunters 
seldom  fail  to  meet  with  success  when  visiting  them.  They 
are  all  easily  reached  by  good  roads  or  pathways.  Several 
neighboring  mountains  are  visited  from  Schroon.  Blue 
Ridge,  2\  m N.,  is  frequently  ascended  at  the  cost  of  but 
little  exertion,  as  there  is  a bridle  path  to  the  summit. 
Mt.  Marcy  and  the  Hunter’s  Pass  are  also  visited  via 
Schroon  River  (the  road  diverging  1,  | m S,  of  Root’s)  and 
Mud  Pond. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


172 

The  “ Great  Northern  Highway,”  starting  from  Moreau 
and  Fort  Edward,  skirts  the  margin  of  Schoon  Lake, 
passing  through  Pottersville,  Schroon  Lake  Village, 
Schroon  River  Village,  (9  m.,)  Elizabethtown  (32  m.,)  and 
terminating  at  Keeseville  (54  m.)  Stages  run  in  either 
direction.  The  ride  is  a delightful  one,  especially  over 
that  portion  of  the  route  embraced  by  the  charming 
Schroon  and  Bouquet  Valleys. 

With  this  digression  from  the  direct  avenue,  for  the  sake 
of  visiting  a lovely  district  for  which  we  think  the  traveler 
will  thank  us,  we  return  to  the  main  routes. 

Twenty-fifth — Caldwell,  at  the  head  of  Lake  George 
is  reached  from  the  S.  and  W.  via.  Saratoga  Springs, 
Fort  Edward  (17  m.,)  and  Glen’s  Falls  (5  m.,)  all  sta- 
tions on  the  Rensselaer  & Saratoga  R.  R — the  latter 
being  a terminus  of  a branch  of  the  main  line.  (Rock- 
well House  ) From  this  romantic  point — picturesquely 
situated  on  the  Hudson — Concord  coaches  run  daily  to 
Caldwell  (9  m.,)  over  an  excellent  road  through  a pleas- 
ant and  historic  section  ; passing  on  the  way  Col. 
Williams’  monument  on  the  left,  and  Bloody  Pond  on 
the  right,  the  scene  of  a terrible  engagement  in  1755, 
between  the  English  and  French,  with  their  Indian  allies. 
Upon  the  beauty  of  its  situation,  (Caldwell,)  the  ruins  of 
Fort  George  and  Fort  William  Henry  crumbling  here, 
and  the  unrivaled  loveliness  of  this  queen  of  American 
lakes,  it  seems  almost  unnecessary  to  dwell,  as  the 
subject  is  familiar  to  nearly  all  our  readers. 

Lake  George  was  called  by  the  In  bans  “ Horicon,” — 
signifying  “ Silvery  Water,”  in  their  euphonious  lan- 
guage— and  is  still  known  to  the  Catholics  as  Lake  Sacra- 
ment, probably  from  the  remarkable  purity  and  trans- 
n\  ncy  of  its  waters,  which  are  carried  by  them  to  great 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


173 


distances  for  consecrated  purposes.  Its  secluded  situa- 
tion, far  aside  from  the  great  thoroughfares  of  travel,  has 
assisted  to  preserve  its  sacredness  of  character.  Its 
length  is  36  m.,  its  width  1 to  3 m.,  and  it  enters  Lake 
Champlain  through  its  outlet  near  the  ruins  of  Fort 
Ticonderoga.  The  following  beautiful  description  of“ 
Lake  George,  is  taken  from  Willis’  Illustrations  of 
American  Scenery: — 

“ Loch  Katrine,  at  the  Trosachs,  is  aminature  likeness 
of  Lake  George.  It  is  the  only  lake  in  Europe  that  has 
the  same  style  or  degree  of  beauty.  The  small  green 
islands  with  their  abrupt  shores — the  emerald  depths  of 
the  water,  overshadowed  and  tinted  by  the  tenderest 
moss  and  foliage — the  lofty  mountains  in  the  back- 
ground— and  the  tranquil  character  of  the  lake,  over 
which  the  wind  is  arrested  and  rendered  powerless  by 
the  peaks  of  the  hills,  and  the  lofty  island  summits,  are 
all  points  of  singular  resemblance.  Loch  Katrine  can 
scarce  be  called  picturesque,  however,  except  at  the 
Trosachs — while  Lake  George,  throughout  all  the  mazes 
of  its  three  hundred  and  sixty-five  islands,  (there  are 
said  to  be  just  that  number — one  for  each  day  in  the 
year,)  preserves  the  same  wild  and  racy  character  of 
beauty.  Varying  in  size  from  a mile  in  length,  to  the 
circumference  of  a tea-table,  these  little  islets  present 
the  most  multiplied  changes  of  surface  and  aspect — upon 
some  only  moss  and  flowers,  upon  others  a miniature 
forest,  with  its  outer  trees  leaning  over  to  the  pellucid 
bosom  of  the  lake,  as  if  drawn  downwards  by  the  reflec- 
tion of  their  own  luxuriant  beauty.” 

“ Nor  is  it  alone  the  ever  varying  splendor  of  the  lake, 
made  classic  by  the  struggles  of  our  colonial  wars,  and 
by  the  pen  of  our  great  romancer,  that  claim  the  admir- 
ing eye  of  the  wondering  stranger.  Hidden  in  the 
shadows  of  the  forest  are  the  lodges  of  a lingering 
remnant  of  the  once  mighty  tribe  of  Mohicans,  who  here, 
where  echoed  the  triumphant  war-whoop  of  their  fore- 
fathers, now  win  a precarious  life  by  practicing  the 


174 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


simple  arts  of  ‘ the  gentle  savage.’  Yet,  though  the 
tears  of  many  years  of  sorrow  have  washed  all  traces  of 
the  war-paint  from  their  cheeks,  and  the  tomahawk  that 
struck  their  Mingo  foes  has  long  since  been  buried  in  the 
dust,  the  birch  canoes  of  the  children  of  the  Lenni 
Lenape  still  dance  at  evening  o’er  the  bosom  of  the 
‘Horicon,’  and  the  skill  of  Uncas  gleams  in  the  flight  of 
their  unerring  Indian  arrow.” 

The  celebrated  Fort  William  Henry  Hotel,  situated  at 
the  head  of  this  lake,  (Caldwell,)  is  a palatial  establish- 
ment— perhaps  the  grandest  and  most  finely  located 
structure  of  the  kind  in  the  wide  world — and  has  accom- 
modations for  900  guests.  The  traveler  will  here  find 
everything  that  constitutes  a first-class  hotel  in  all  its 
branches.  The  scene  before  us,  as  we  look  from  the 
dome  or  piazza  of  this  house,  presents  one  of  the  loveliest 
views  of  this  most  lovely  lake. 

The  Lake  House,  at  Caldwell,  the  Crosbyside,  the 
Mohican,  the  Bolton,  the  14  Mile  Island,  and  other  hotels 
located  at  different  points  on  the  lake,  offer  attractive 
entertainment  to  sportsman  or  pleasure  seeker.  A 
more  fascinating  locality  for  a summer  sojourn  can 
scarcely  be  imagined. 

The  elegant  steamer  Minnehaha,  makes  daily  trips  to 
the  foot  of  the  lake,  where  cars  are  taken  for  Fort  Tic- 
onderoga  (4!  m.,)  which  closely  connect  with  the  Lake 
Champlain  steamers.  The  delights  experienced  in  this 
romantic  passage  will  cling  to  the  memory  of  a lifetime. 

The  route  through  Lake  George  forms  an  important 
link  in  the  line  of  pleasure  travel  from  New  York,  Cats- 
kill  Mountains,  Saratoga  and  other  popular  resorts 
going  North,  or  frbm  Niagara  Falls,  Montreal,  Quebec, 
White  and  Green  Mountains,  the  Adirondacks  and  other 
interesting  localities  to  the  South. 

From  Caldwell  to  Warrensburgh  (3  m.  from  the  Adiron- 
dack R.  R ) it  is  6 m ; thence  to  Chester,  12m.;  Potters- 
ville,  6 m.  (Lock’s  Hotel,)  (the  route  diverging  here  from 
the  great  northern  highway  and  uniting  with  the  Crown 
Point  road  i^  W.  of  Tahawus  or  the  Lower  Iron  Works ;) 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


175 

Olmsteadville,  6 m,  (Sullivan’s  Hotel)  ; Minerva,  2 m, 
(Champney’s  Hotel) ; Boreas  River  or  “Aiden  Lair,”  8 m, 
(Cunningham’s  and  Williams’  Hotels);  Newcomb,  12  m, 
(Davis’  Hotel)  ; Long  Lake  Village,  13  m,  (Kellogg’s 
Hotel).  Total,  65  m.  Stages  leave  Glens’  Falls*  and  Cald- 
well daily  for  Pottersville  ; Pottersvillef  every  Tuesday  even- 
ing for  Long  Lake  Village.  This  road  is  being  continually 
improved.  It  is  already  perfect  from  Newcomb  to  Long 
Lake.  The  scenery  along  the  route  is  generally  very 
attractive.  Through  winding  dales  clothed  with  luxuriant 
foliage,  mountains  gleam — now  obscured,  now  revealed. 
Thus  the  Adirondack  towers  are  in  occasional  view  through- 
out the  entire  journey  and  replace  one  another  in  delight- 
ful variation  as  the  road  winds  along  till  we  reach  New- 
comb, where  the  crowning  spectacle  awaits  us,  and  we  are 
introduced  to  one  of  the  richest  feasts  of  loveliness  and 
sublimity  found  in  the  whole  magnificent  group.  To  the 
N.  E.  Tahawus  again  appears  in  majesty  before  us,  the 
grand  central  figure  in  a proud  assemblage  of  Herculean 
forms. 

The  little  forest-embosomed  hamlet  of  Newcomb  is 
located  not  far  from  the  shores  of  Lake  Harris  and  near 
the  base  of  Mt.  Goodenow.  Travelers  will  find  very 
pleasant  quarters  at  Davis’  Inn  (Aunt  Polly’s)  and  at  the 
most  reasonable  rates,  and  may  spend  many  days  to  good 
advantage  here.  Sporting  facilities  are  first-class. 

Some  10  m S.  W.  of  Newcomb  are  the  Chain  Lakes,  a 
group  of  seven  connected  links — the  largest  of  which  is  2 
m 1.  They  discharge  into  Rock  River,  the  outlet  of  Rock 
Lake,  and  a branch  of  the  Hudson.  The  route  leads  as 

*A  branch  railroad  now  connects  Glen’s  Falls  with  the  Saratoga  and 
Whitehall  R.  R.  at  Fort  Edward. 

tWe  are  informed  stages  will  run  tri-weekly  hereafter. 


176 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


follows  : — Road  (3  m.)  and  path  (1  m.)  to  Goodenow  P ; 
down  Goodenow  R.  to  the  noted  “ fishing  rock,”  4 m. 
(or  path  direct  from  Davis’,  6 m.)  ; path  to  Otter  P. 
(f  xj — fine  trouting),  f m.;  thence  path  to  Chain  Lakes 
(p.  184),  m.  Mt.  Joseph — supposed  to  be  an  extinct 
volcano,  whose  summit,  or  crater,  is  occupied  by  a deep 
lake — rises  1 m.  W.  of  the  “ fishing  rock.” 

To  visit  Lake  Delia  or  Newcomb  by  water  (3  m.  by 
path  N.  E.  of  Newcomb),  take  boat  20  r.  from  the  inn, 
pass  down  the  stream  ^ m.  to  Bissell’s  Mill  ; carry  2 or 
3 r.  ; pass  down  Lake  Harris  (E.)  3 m.  ; thence  up  the 
“ Iron  Works  Stream,”  ^ m.  ; thence  carry  f m.  ; thence 
up  Newcomb  River  a short  distance.  This  lake 
(2^  x f)  richly  abounds  in  trout.  It  receives  the  waters  of 
Lake  Andrews  (3  m.  N.  W.)  from  which  it  is  about  4 m. 
N.  E.  to  Lake  Harkness  or  Hunters  P.  near  the  U.  Iron 
Works.  Both  these  lakes  lie  near  the  base  of  Santanoni  Mt. 

The  following  is  the  water  rou:e  from  Davis’  to  Long 
Lake,  passing . through  excellent  hunting  and  fishing 
grounds  : — Belden  Pond  (near  the  house),  i rm  ; portage, 
14  r. ; Rich  L.,  3 m.  (W.  of  Lake  Harris  and  which  is 
skirted  by  the  Long  Lake  road)  ; up  Fishing  Brook  W. 
1 m.  ; up  Catlin  Lake  Stream,  N.  W.  1 m.,  interrupted 
by  three  portages  whose  aggregate  does  not  exceed  40 
r.  ; Lily  Pad  P.,  f m.  N.  W.  ; portage,  4 r.  ; Long  P.,  1 
m.  ; portage,  2 r.  ; Catlin  L.,  3 m.  (wild,  beautiful  and 
secluded) ; portage,  N.  1 m.  ; Round  Pond  (ix|),|  m.  ; 
portage,  N.  W.  1^  m.  to  Long  Lake  ; thence  to  the  Is 
land  House  it  is  i m.  (p.  215).  N E.  of  Catlin  L , \ m., 
is  Deer  P.  ; and  1 m.  E.  of  that  is  Wolf  P.  ; j m.  W.  of 
Catlin  L.  (lower  end)  is  another  Belden  P.  From  Round 
P.  to  Cold  River  it  is  m.  N.  E. 

Pickwacket  P.  lies  I m.  N.  of  the  road,  6 m.  E.  of 
Long  Lake  Village.  These  lakes  and  ponds  are  all 
fountain  heads  of  the  Hudson.  A canal  has  been  pro- 
posed from  Long  Lake  to  Round  Pond,  which  would  con- 
nect its  waters  with  that  river. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


VJ7 


Twenty-sixth — Saratoga  Springs. — With  the  superior 
attractions  of  this  world-famous  resort  nearly  every  one 
in  civilized  communities  is  conversant ; and  upon  the 
superior  character  of  its  magnificent  hotels,  tourisms  from 
all  quarters  of  the  habitable  globe  have  already  passed 
their  favorable  verdicts. 

The  United  States  Hotel — a stupendous  establish- 
ment—has  elegant  accommodations  for  1,600  guests  ; 
the  Grand  Union  is  of  nearly  equal  princely  capacity, 
and  Congress  Hall  ditto  ; the  Clarendon  can  entertain 
500  ; the  American,  450  ; the  Arlington,  350  ; the  Con- 
tinental, 200  ; the  Columbian,  200  ; Temple  Grove,  200  ; 
the  Pitney,  175  ; Drs.  Strong’s  Remedial  Institute, 
150;  the  Waverley,  150;  the  Vermont,  120  ; the  Pavilion, 
100  ; the  Everett,  100  ; the  Washington,  100  ; the 
Wilbur,  100  ; the  Empire,  75  ; the  Commercial,  75  ; the 
Broadway,  50  ; the  Mt.  Pleasant,  50  ; and  the  Holden,  50. 

THE  SPRINGS. 

The  most  celebrated  mineral  waters  on  the  American 
continent  are  those  of  Saratoga.  The  most  famous  of 
these,  and  from  which  the  entire  series  of  25  to  30  springs 
have  received  their  high  reputation,  is 
THE  CONGRESS. 

This  “Fountain  of  Health”  was  discovered  in  1790  by 
a party  of  gentlemen  who  were  hunting  in  this  section. 

In  1823,  Dr.  John  Clarke,  of  New  York,  a gentleman 
of  very  considerable  scientific  knowledge,  having  seen 
and  examined  the  waters  and  being  convinced  of  its  great 
medical  virtues,  purchased  the  spring  and  commenced 
bottling  the  water  for  exportation  and  sale.  In'  July, 
1865,  the  property — including  the  Columbian  Spring — 
passed  into  the  hands  of  an  incorporated  company,  who, 
11 


1 78 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


at  the  same  time,  purchased  the  Empire  Spring,  and 
assumed  the  management  of  the  business,  under  the 
name  of  the 

CONGRESS  AND  EMPIRE  SPRING  COMPANY. 

This  company  continues  the  bottling,  packing  and 
shipping  of  the  waters,  which  are  sent,  not  only  to  all 
portions  of  the  United  States  and  the  British  Provinces, 
but,  to  a considerable  extent,  also,  to  Mexico,  South 
America,  the  West  Indies,  Europe  and  China.  The  sale 
in  foreign  countries  is  constantly  increasing.  The  home 
demand  was  never  so  great  as  at  the  present  time.  It 
would  be  difficult  indeed  to  find  a town  of  any  magni- 
tude in  the  United  States  where  these  water  are  not 
kept  for  sale  ; and  scarcely  a vessel  leaves  our  shores  for 
any  distant  port  which  does  not  reckon  them  among  its 
stores  or  freight. 

As  a general  renovator  and  preserver  of  health,  as  a 
home  remedy  at  once  innocent  and  efficient,  Congress 
Water  is  of  incalculable  value.  It  is  prescribed  by  the 
faculty  in  certain  diseases  with  as  much  confidence  as 
any  preparation  known  to  the  apothecary.  It  is  in  an 
eminent  sense  Nature’s  own  remedy,  and  thousands  use 
it  who  resort  to  no  other  medicine,  never  suffering 
themselves  to  be  without  it  in  their  houses,  and  never 
venturing  to  go  upon  a long  journey,  especially  a voyage 
at  sea,  without  being  provided  with  it  as  an  excellent  and 
judicious  traveling  companion.  It  is  an  almost  absolute 
preventive  of  sea-sickness.  Hon.  Thurlow  Weed,  de- 
clares that  “ no  family  ought  to  cross  the  Atlantic  with- 
out Congress  Water.”  “ I have  drank  it,”  he  says,  “ in 
the  Tropical  Islands,  in  England,  in  France,  in  Germany, 
and  Italy,  with  the  same  beneficial  effects  as  when  drawn 
fresh  from  the  Spring  ;”  and  he  and  many  others  charac- 
terize it,  as  it  truly  is,  a delightful  beverage. 


;■  • «iv  ; 


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. 

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■ 

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% 

CONGRESS  SPRING  AND  PARK,  AND  COLUMBIAN  SPRING,  1875. 


EMPIRE  SPRING. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


m 

In  all  those  functional  affections  of  the  organs  em- 
ployed in  the  process  of  digestion,  constituting  what  is 
usually  termed  dyspepsia,  the  waters  of  this  spring  have 
long  maintained  a high  and  deserved  reputation.  Multi- 
tudes of  both  sexes  often  suffer  from  constipation  of  the 
bowels  until  all  the  evil  consequences  of  such  a condi- 
tion are  realized  in  extreme  debility,  nervousness  and 
prostration  of  the  vital  energies  of  the  system,  who 
might  find  speedy  and  certain  relief  by  the  use  of  this 
simple  and  harmless  remedy.  Invalids  have  been  often 
surprised  and  delighted,  after  using  the  waters  a few 
weeks,  to  find  themselves  rapidly  gaining  flesh  and 
strength  ; the  real  secret  of  their  improvement  being  in 
effect  of  the  water,  which  greatly  increases  the  power  of 
assimilation,  thereby  securing  a larger  proportion  of  the 
nutrition  contained  in  food,  much  of  which  is  lost  when 
the  digestive  functions  have  become  impaired.  In  cases 
of  chronic  dyspepsia,  a persevering  use  of  the  water, 
with  proper  dietetic  restrictions,  and  suitable  attention 
to  the  ordinary  rules  of  health,  gives  the  sufferer  a speedy 
sense  of  relief,  and  in  the  end  is  certain  to  eradicate  the 
disease,  with  its  attendant  miseries. 

The  use  of  the  water  as  a cathartic  is  also  beneficial 
in  jaundice,  the  various  forms  of  neuralgia,  enlargement 
of  the  liver  and  spleen,  rheumatic  affections,  cutaneous 
diseases,  and  in  nearly  all  disorders  occasioned  by  that 
round  of  fashionable  indulgences  generally  termed  “ high 
living.”  Instead  of  causing  nausea  or  disturbance  of 
the  stomach,  as  is  the  effect  of  ordinary  cathartics,  the 
water,  while  it  produces  copious  evacuations,  seems  at 
the  same  time  to  invigorate  the  whole  system,  giving 
a relish  for  the  coarsest  and  most  common  articles  of 
food.  The  freedom  from  griping  pains  which  is  notice- 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


T 8o 

able  in  the  cathartic  operations  of  the  water,  is  owing  to 
the  sedative  effects  of  the  carbonic  acid  gas,  which  also 
tends  to  prevent  that  sense  of  languor  usually  accom- 
panying the  operations  of  ordinary  medicines  of  this 
class. 

It  should  be  remembered  that  the  water  of  this  spring 
is  sold  in  bottles  only.  What  purports  to  be  Congress 
Water,  for  sale  on  draught  in  various  places  throughout 
the  country,  is  not  genuine.  The  artificial  preparations 
thus  imposed  upon  the  public  may  have  a certain  resem- 
blance in  taste  and  appearance,  but  are  frequently  worse 
than  worthless  for  medicinal  purposes. 

COLUMBIAN  SPRING. 

This  mineral  spring — perhaps  the  favorite  with  the 
citizens  of  Saratoga — is  situated  only  a few  rods  south- 
westerly from  the  Congress,  in  the  same  beautiful  park. 
This  water,  possessing  valuable  diuretic,  tonic,  and  alter- 
ative properties,  is  deserving  special  attention  from  those 
who  are  suffering  from  long-continued  diseases  of  the 
kidneys  and  bladder,  gravel,  and  irritated  condition  of 
the  urethra,  aggravated,  it  may  be,  by  neglect  or  impru- 
dence. 

In  liver  complaints,  in  dyspepsia,  in  erysipelas  and  all 
cutaneous  diseases,  as  also  with  slowly-healing  wounds 
and  ulcers,  this  water,  taken  in  small  quantities,  and  pre- 
ceded by  the  free  use  of  Congress  or  Empire  Water, 
taken  before  breakfast  (to  promote  free  action  of  the 
bowels,)  will  be  found  highly  beneficial,  strengthening 
and  restorative. 

EMPIRE  SPRING. 

This  spring  is  situated  near  the  base  of  a high  lime- 
stone bluff  in  the  northerly  part  of  the  village,  about 
three-fourths  of  a mile  from  the  Congress  Spring.  The 


descriptive  guide. 


181 

dose  resemblance  of  this  water  to  the  Congress  in  many 
of  its  properties  renders  it  almost  equally  popular.  In 
the  cathartic  effects  of  the  two  waters  the  difference  is 
scarcely  appreciable.  The  value  of  Empire  Water  is 
best  shown  in  the  treatment  of  obscure  and  chronic  dis- 
eases, and  it  is  used  successfully  by  those  who  are  suffer- 
ing from  the  incipient  stages  of  pulmonary  disease.  In 
cases  of  Scrofula,  its  use  has  frequently  resulted  in  the 
entire  removal  of  the  disease.  In  all  dyspeptic  and  bil- 
ious complaints,  it  is  eminently  beneficial,  as  also  in  the 
removal  and  cure  of  constipation.  This  water  is  espe- 
cially adapted  to  the  successful  treatment  of  rheumatism 
and  gout,  and  all  eruptive  diseases  of  the  skin  are  most 
effectually  eradicated,  while  its  purifying  effect  adds  tone 
to  the  stomach,  and  invigorates  the  whole  system.  As  a 
preventive  or  remedy  for  intermittent,  gastric,  and  bilious 
fevers,  dysenteries,,  and  disorders  of  the  liver,  this  water 
is  a remedy  of  remarkable  efficacy.  It  gives  vigor  to  the 
circulation,  removes  constipation,  creates  an  appetite, 
and  promotes  a healthy  condition  of  all  the  secretions 
and  excretions  of  the  system.  The  other  springs  most 
noted  for  the  excellence  of  their  medicinal  qualities  and 
to  which  we  can  only  allude  in  a general  way,  are  the 
High  Rock,  the  Hathorn,  the  Excelsior,  the  Star,  the 
Saratoga  “A,”  the  Geyser,  the  Eureka,  the  Pavilion,  the 
Red,  the  Washington,  the  Putnam,  the  Union,  the 
Glacier,  the  Seltzer,  the  Hamilton,  the  United  States  and 
the  White  Sulphur. 

From  Saratoga  Springs  delightful  excursions  are  made 
to  Lakes  George,  Champlain,  Luzerne  and  Schroon,  and 
to  the  Adirondacks. 

Proceeding  by  Rensselaer  & Saratoga  R.  R.  to  Fort 


I $2 


descriptive  guide. 


Edward  (17  m.,)  and  Glen’s  Falls  (5  m.,)  and  thence  by 
Putnam  & Co.’s  fine  Concord  coaches  (9  m.)  we  reach 
Caldwell  (Fort  Wm.  Henry  Hotel,)  at  the  head  of  Lake 
George  as  per  p.  172.  The  same  point  is  also  gained  by 
the  Adirondack  R.  R.  via  Thurman,  at  the  junction  of 
Schroon  and  Hudson  Rivers,  (36  m.,)  and  thence  by  new 
and  elegant  Concord  coaches  through  charming  scenery 
to  Lake  George,  (9  m.) — the  excellent  road  following  the 
Schroon  River  for  nearly  3 m.,  passing  through  a romantic 
gorge  in  the  mountains  and  furnishing  the  tourist  one  of 
the  most  enjoyable  stage  rides  on  the  continent.  This 
excursion  may  be  delightfully  varied  by  making  a round 
trip  of  these  two  routes. 

By  Rensselaer  & Saratoga  R.  R.,  we  proceed  to 
Whitehall  (41  m.,)  where  we  take  the  Whitehall  & Platts- 
burg  R R.,  to  Fort  Ticonderoga  (24  m.,)  embarking 
there  on  the  Lake  Champlain  Steamers  for  Plattsburg, 
&c.,  and  intermediate  points.  Or  we  reach  the  same 
place  (Ticonderoga)  by  steamer  Minnehaha  through  the 
enchanting  panorama  of  Lake  George,  (page  174,)  (36  m.,) 
and  thence  by  the  new  R.  R.,  to  the  old  Fort,  (4J  m.) 

At  Hadley,  on  the  Adirondack  R.  R , (22  m.,)  we 
leave  the  cars  for  lovely  Lake  Luzerne,  ^ m.  distant, 
just  across  the  Hudson.  (Free  carriages.)  Here  those 
famous  game  and  fish  dinners  await  the  traveler  at  Rock- 
well’s Hotel,  as  well  as  the  pretty  cottages  and  attractive 
quarters  provided  by  the  Wayside  House. 

At  Riverside,  (Folsom’s  Landing,)  on  the  same  rail- 
way (50  m.,)  Leavitt  & Leland’s  superior  four-horse  Con- 
cord coaches  are  in  waiting  to  convey  us  over  a good 
road  through  a picturesque  section  to  Pottersville,  (6  m , 
— Lock’s  Hotel,)  at  the  foot  of  Schroon  Lake,  from 
whence  we  pass,  in  the  new  and  beautiful  Steamer 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


183 

Effingham,  through  the  entire  length  of  this  lovely  sheet 
to  Schroon  Lake  Village,  (9  m.,)  (Ondawa  Hotel,  p.  170.) 

Stages  are  also  taken  at  Riverside  (daily;,  for  Chester- 
town,  (5  m.,) — a quiet  but  delightful  summer  resort,  with 
surroundings  of  a charming  character,  and  good  fishing  in 
the  neighboring  lakes  and  streams.  (Down’s  Hotel. , 

The  Adirondack  R.  R.,  whose  southern  terminus  is 
Saratoga  Springs,  is  already  completed  as  far  as  North 
Creek  (57  m).  Its  ultimate  destination  is  probably 
Ogdensburg.  It  passes  through  the  romantic  and  pictur- 
esque valley  of  the  Upper  Hudson,  and  from  this  route 
many  and  varied  are  the  scenes  of  interest  and  grandeur 
presented. 

From  North  Creek  stages  run  daily  to  Minerva  (6  m.,) 
and  from  thence  every  Wednesday  and  Saturday  morn- 
ing to  Newcomb  (20  m. — Davis’  Hotel,)  and  Long  Lake 
(33  m. — Kellogg’s  Hotel).  Private  conveyances  can  be 
procured  in  Minerva,  at  Champney’s  Hotel,  at  any  time 
for  the  above  named  points  and  other  Wilderness 
resorts. 

The  following  is  the  route  from  North  Creek  (Adiron- 
dack House  and  Roger’s  Hotel)  to  Indian  Lake,  Chain 
Lakes,  Cedar  River  Falls,  Blue  Mt.  Lake,  the  Eckford 
Waters,  &c. : — 

North  River  (“  14th  Station  ” — Robbee  House  and 
Eldridge’s  Hotel,)  5 m.  ; Indian  River  (Washburn’s 
Hotel,)  urn.;  Cedar  River  (Jackson’s  Hotel,)  3 m.  ; 
Cedar  River  Falls  (Wakeley’s  Hotel,)  12^  m. ; — total, 
312  m. 

Cedar  River  (Jackson’s)  to  Blue  Mt.  Lake  (Hathorn’s,) 
io|  m.  ; — total,  29J  m. 

Jackson’s  to  Stephen’s  P.,  5f  m.  ; Cascade  P.,  ij  m.  ; 
Eagle  Lake,  5 m ; “Eagle’s  Nest”  (Austin’s,)  on  oppo- 
site side  of  the  lake,  1 m.  ; — total,  32  m. 


1 84 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Jackson’s  to  Rock  Lake,  4 m. — the  road  diverging,  r. 
from  the  Blue  Mt.  Lake  route. 

, From  Indian  River  (Washburn’s)  to  Indian  Lake  it-  is 
5 m.  S. — the  road  branching  from  the  main  route,  1 , 
midway  between  Washburn’s  (i-J  m.)  and  Jackson’s. 
(See  p.  195.) 

From  Washburn’s  it  is  10  m.  N.,  by  passable  road  to  the 
7 Chain  Lakes — a group  of  smiling  waters  delightfully 
interlaced, — upon  which  we  enjoy  noble  mountain  views 
in  nearly  every  direction.  At  the  terminus  of  the  road, 
and  on  the  shore  of  the  most  important  one  of  these,  is 
situated  H.  Bonney’s  “ Summer  Retreat,”  where  careful 
provision  is  always  made  for  the  wants  of  his  guests. 
Charges  moderate.  (P.  O.  Indian  Lake.)  From  the 
opposite  side  of  this  lake,  a land  and  water  route  leads  to 
Newcomb,  (Davis’  Hotel,)  10  m.  N.  E.  The  Chain  Lakes 
flow  into  Rock  R.,  and  that  feeds  the  Hudson.  This  is 
a good  sporting  centre  and  very  interesting  to  the  fisher 
and  hunter.  (See  pp.  175  and  176.) 

Concord  stages  leave  North  Creek  daily  on  arrival  of 
noon  train  for  Jackson’s  Thence  to  Cedar  River  Falls, 
spring-board  wagons  are  used — parties  reaching  that 
point,  if  desired,  the  same  evening.  It  is  customary, 
however,  to  remain  over  night  at  Washburn’s  or  Jack- 
son’s, and  pursue  the  journey  the  following  morning. 
The  Indian  River  Hotel — Milo  E.  Washburn,  prop’r. — 
(P.  O.  Indian  Lake,  Hamilton  Co.,  N.  Y.,)  offers  pleasant, 
comfortable  and  home-like  quarters  to  invalids  or  sports- 
men, and  we  can  conscientiously  recommend  this  halting- 
place  as  one  worthy  of  high  commendation.  The  fishing 
field  hereabouts,  embraces  the  Indian  R.,  down  to  the 
Hudson  ; up  the  latter  to  entrance  of  Cedar  R.,  and  so  on 
to  the  Chain  Lakes  ; embracing  also  Indian  and  Lewey 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


185 


Lakes,  (p.  195,)  besides  numerous  points  east  of  the 
hotel.  May  and  June  furnish  fine  sport  in  this  section. 
These  are  the  only  months  in  which  trolling  for  trout  in 
the  Wilderness  is  fairly  rewarded. 

The  Arctic  Hotel  at  Cedar  River, — Richard  B.  Jack- 
son,  prop’r. — (P.  O.  Indian  Lake,)  also  affords  excellent 
accommodations.  There  is  quite  a hamlet  here.  Extra 
conveyances  are  furnished  by  Jackson  or  Washburn,  to 
Cedar  River  Falls,  Eagle  and  Blue  Mt.  Lakes,  and  Chain 
Lakes.  The  roads  from  North  Creek  to  all  these 
points — perhaps  excepting  those  from  Jackson’s  to  Eagle 
L.,  and  from  Washburn’s  to  Chain  Lakes — are  now  in 
good  condition  and  no  hardship  is  experienced  in 
journeying  over  them. 

The  new  hotel  at  Cedar  River  Falls — W.  D.  Wakeley, 
proprietor,  P.  O.  Indian  Lake,  capacity  60 — furnishes 
everything  usually  needed  by  the  sportsman,  tourist  or 
pleasure  seeker,  including  tents,  fishing  tackle,  ammuni- 
tion, provisions,  boats,  guides  and  complete  camp  outfits. 
Boarders  will  be  provided  with  every  comfort  they  could 
desire,  while  those  wishing  to  “ rough  it,”  will  find  no 
lack  of  requisites  for  camp  life. 

This  portion  of  the  Great  Forest  is  newly  opened  and 
comparatively  unknown.  Scenery  wild  and  beautiful  and 
sporting  unsurpassed.  The  recent  important  explora- 
tions and  admirable  report  on  the  Topographical  Survey 
of  the  Adirondack  Wilderness,  by  Verplanck  Colvin, 
have  served  to  attract  attention  in  this  direction.  It  is  an 
exceedingly  interesting  district,  and  we  will  pause  to 
examine  some  of  its  most  important  characteristics. 

By  ascending  a mountain  ij  m.  N.  W.  of  the  hotel,  by 
a good  road  leading  to  the  summit,  we  obtain  a rich  and 
varied  view  of  the  surrounding  country — many  of  the 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


1 8b 

Adirondack  pinnacles  being  visible  ; also  8 or  io  bodies 
of  water,  including  the  bright  expanse  of  the  queenly 
Raquette. 

One  m.  N.  E.  of  the  hotel,  on  the  road  to  Jackson’s,  is 
Crescent  P. — so  named  from  its  shape — which  affords 
good  fly  fishing,  and  which  is  the  almost  nightly  resort 
of  deer.  Indeed  this  animal  sometimes  approaches  the 
house  nearer  than  this.  In  October  last  a noble  buck, 
pursued  by  hounds,  bounded  into  the  court-yard  and  was 
there  shot  by  Mr.  O — , of  Sara  oga  Springs.  In  the  river, 
not  5 rods  away,  many  a nice  string  of  speckled  trout 
was  caught  the  past  season  by  sportsmen  before  break- 
fast, and  Mr.  C , of  West  Troy,  killed  one  of  these 
gamey  fellows  at  the  falls  close  by,  which  weighed  4 lbs. 

The  Cedar  Lakes — sources  of  this  river — are  reached 
by  wagon  road,  or  by  boating  up  the  river  5 m.,  (this  stream 
is  navigable  1 m.  farther,  but  below  the  falls,  at  Wakeley’s, 
it  is  broken  by  rapids  ;)  thence  by  carry  1 \ m.  W.  ; thence 
by  boating  across  Moose  Lake,  (the  head  of  the  S. 
Branch  of  Moose  River,)  £ m.  ; thence  by  carry  3 m.  S. 
W.  (road)  to  the  first  of  these  lakes.  Total  10  m.,  or  7 
m.  by  road.  These  waters  are  closely  connected  and  boats 
pass  from  one  to  another.  The  first  one  is  \ \ x 1 ; the 
second,  nearly  round  and  £ m.  in  diameter  ; and  the  third, 
1 x £.  The  old  State  road,  opened  through  the  Wilderness 
in  1817,  from  Wells,  Hamilton  Co.,  to  Russell,  St.  Law- 
rence Co.,  passes  within  2 m.  (E.)  of  these  lakes.  It  is  now 
overgrown  with  trees,  but  it  is  to  be  re-opened  this  sea- 
son from  Lake  Pleasant,  15  m.  S.,  to  Moose  L.  From 
the  latter  lake  a lofty  mountain — recently  christened  Col- 
vin, in  honor  of  the  great  explorer — is  prominently  seen 
at  the  S.  This  peak  rises  near  Piseco  L.  and  is  locally 
known  as  Panther  Mountain.  (See  pp.  194  and  197.) 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


187 


About  4 m.  S.  W.  of  the  3d  Cedar  L.  are  the  5 W. 
Canada  Lakes — sources  of  the  W.  Canada  Creek.  Wild 
are  the  surroundings  of  these  almost  unknown,  un- 
visited sheets.  They  are  perhaps  a mile  apart  and  their 
waters  swarm  with  speckled  trout  of  superior  weight  and 
quality.  In  one  of  this  group,  called  Big  L.,  lake  trout 
abound  of  very  large  size.  On  the  route  from  the  Cedar 
to  the  W,  Canada  Lakes,  are  two  other  sheets,  termed 
respectively,  Pilsbury  and  Whitney  L.  The  first  of  these 
is  1 m from  the  2d  Cedar  L.,  and  the  other  a little 
farther,  on  the  way.  They  were  thus  named  from  Capt. 
L.  D.  Pilsbury,  of  Albany,  and  his  friend,  who,  with 
their  guides,  were  the  first  persons  that  carried  boats  to 
these  waters.  Both  lakes  are  richly  supplied  with  trout, 
and  deer  feed  in  the  daytime  around  them. 

Some  14  m.  W.  of  Wakeley’s  is  a locality  of  great 
interest,  called  the  “ Indian  Clearing,”  (accessible  by 
saddle-horse  over  a sled  road  via.  Moose  L.,4  m.,)  which 
is  a cleared  space  of  about  1,000  acres  (3  x £),  perfectly 
free  of  stone,  stump  or  tree.  How,  when,  or  by  whom 
made,  none  living  know — none  live  to  tell.  It  is  not 
supposed  to  have  been  the  work  of  the  beaver.  Through 
this  singular,  solitary  clearing  the  Moose  R.  courses  its 
way — here,  and  for  miles  hence,  a Stillwater.  It  is 
also  crossed  by  several  smaller  crystal  streams  teeming 
with  rarely  molested  trout.  Here,  the  enthusiastic 
angler  may  test  his  skill  until  his  ambition  is  gratified  to 
the  utmost.  On  every  side  are  numerous  and  nameless 
lakes  and  ponds,  embosomed  among  hills  richly  clad  in 
pine,  spruce  and  hard  wood,  which  the  hand  of  man  has 
never  desecrated  with  the  invading  axe.  It  is  a charm- 
ing section,  full  of  primitive  and  romantic  beauty.  Game 
exists  in  abundance,  and  deer,  which  frequently  pasture 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


1 88 

!n  this  natural  deer  park,  may  be  sighted  almost  every 
day.  Boats  are  kept  at  the  “ Clearing,”  and  at  the 
neighboring  waters,  by  Wakeley  for  the  use  of  his  guests. 

On  the  old  State  road,  heretofore  named,  is  some  of 
the  finest  woodland  scenery  anywhere  to  be  enjoyed— 
reminding  one  of  the  well  kept  parks  of  “ Bonny  Old 
England” — open  hard  wood  timber  abounding,  with  no 
undergrowth  to  impede  our  progress,  with  here  and  there 
sparkling  streamlets  meandering  through.  It  is  a most 
delightful  route  to  the  explorer  of  Nature’s  sequestered 
beauties. 

A road  will  be  completed  this  season  from  Wakeley’s 
to  the  Raquette  waters,  skirting  along  the  shores  of 
Fonda  (now  generally  called  Sumner,)  and  Shedd  L.,  and 
terminating  at  the  South  Inlet.  Distance,  H m. 
Thence  it  is  2 m.  by  this  stream  to  Raquette  L.  The 
following  is  the  route  at  present  traveled: — Road, (team) 
7f  m.  N.  W.  ; L.  Sumner,  (boat)  I m.  ; Portage  2 m.  N. 
W.  ; Shedd  L,  (boat)  f m.  ; Portage,  if  m N.  W.  to 
falls  at  South  Inlet;  thence  boat  to  Raquette  L.,  2 m. 
Total,  14-f  m.  (See  page  202  ) Boats  are  provided  by 
Wakeley  for  the  accommodation  of  parties  passing  over 
this  route 

To  Blue  Mt  Lake  from  Cedar  River  Falls  it  is  14!  m. — 
the  route  being  identical  with  the  one  leading  to  Jack- 
son’s for  a distance  of  about  7 m.,  and  thence  with  the 
Eagle  Lake  route. 

Blue  Mountain  Lake  (3  x 2)  is  pronounced  by  all  author- 
ities the  “ Koh-i-noor,”  of  the  smaller  Wilderness  gems.* 
Numerous  islets  and  islands  of  various  forms  and 
aspects  ; some  frowning  with  adamantine  sternness, 


‘^The  Raquette  is  perhaps  without  a peer  among  the  larges  lakes.  Some 
•;'ive  the  palm  to  Big  Tupper.  (See  pp.  20j  and  219.) 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


189 

others  smiling  in  robes  of  charming  green,  lie  in  its 
waters  of  translucent  purity  like  agates  and  emeralds  in 
settings  of  burnished  silver.  To  traverse  the  winding 
water-courses  formed  by  these  picturesque  groups,  is  to 
penetrate  a labyrinth  of  intricate  and  bewildering 
avenues.  The  loveliness  of  the  lake  is  greatly  enhanced 
by  the  wild  and  majestic  scenery  surrounding  it.  Moun- 
tain peaks  on  three  of  its  sides  display  their  sublime 
fronts,  and  pre-eminent  among  them  is  the  noble  dome 
from  which  the  lake  derives  its  name. 

Those  seeking  a sylvan  retreat  which  supplies  the 
primitive  mode  of  enjoying  a wild-wood  life— devoid  of 
the  gaiety,  dissipation,  and  expense  that  characterize  the 
more  pretentious  resorts  ; and  which,  with  its  environs 
presents  ideals  of  beauty,  and  opportunities  for  sporting 
seldom  excelled,  will  find  a worthy  object  of  their  search 
in  this  most  favored  spot.  Chauncey  Hathorn’s  “Sum- 
mer Camping  Ground,”  (P.  O.  Indian  Lake,  Hamilton 
Co.  N.  Y.,)  is  located  on  the  E.  shore  of  this  lake,  where 
a beautiful  beach  of  sand  lends  additional  attraction  to 
the  place.  His  camps— situated  beneath  the  “ pillared 
shade”  of  a pleasant  grove— consist  of  a series  of  tents 
and  of  bark,  board  and  log  shanties,  with  floors,  stoves, 
windows,  &c„  and  a dining  room  for  general  use— simply 
a rustic  canopy  supported  by  “ pillars,”  but  not  enclosed. 
He  also  has  constructed  and  furnished  camps  at  Minnow, 
Salmon,  Tirrell,  and  the  Sargent  Ponds,  and  on  the 
Utowana  carry  and  at  Raquette  Lake.  These  his 
guests  often  visit  for  a day  or  more  at  a time  ; and  the 
excursions  thence  offer  such  a pleasing  variety  of  routes, 
sporting  and  scenery,  as  never  to  become  monotonous 
even  should  a tarry  be  prolonged  for  many  weeks.  His 
mode  of  entertaining  has  proved  a success,  and  his 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


190 

reputation  as  a successful  caterer  is  fully  established.  A 
number  of  highly  respectable  people  have  given  him 
their  patronage  for  a dozen  successive  seasons.  We  are 
confident  that  with  the  improved  roads  and  facilities  for 
travel  in  this  direction,  this  locality  will  soon  become  one 
of  the  most  popular  resorts  in  all  the  Wilderness. 

Mr.  Hathorn  first  penetrated  these  magnificent  soli- 
tudes some  18  years  ago,  hoping  to  regain  that  health 
which  consumptive  tendencies  were  rapidly  undermining. 
It  required  but  a short  season  of  wilderness  life  to  effect 
his  cure,  and  he  became  so  enraptured  with  the  region 
as  to  adopt  it  for  a permanent  home.  A most  intelligent, 
even  scholarly  gentleman,  possessing  a perfect  knowledge 
of  this  section  in  every  direction,  thoroughly  familiar 
with  the  special  haunts  of  deer  and  trout  for  dozens  of 
miles  around,  and  very  proficient  in  the  culinary  art — 
really  an  accomplishment  in  the  woods — we  need  not 
hesitate  to  commend  to  his  charge  visitors  to  the  Adiron- 
dacks  who  select  this  route.  His  prices  for  board  are  very 
reasonable,  viz  : $1.00  per  day,  and  most  excellent  fare  at 
that.  His  team  conveys  parties  from  here  to  Cedar  or 
Indian  Rivers  for  $5.00,  and  to  North  Creek  for  $io.qo 
His  boats  are  rented  at  moderate  rates  (See  Addenda  ) 

Blue  Mt  Lake  is  not  famed  alone  for  its  picturesque 
attractions.  The  size,  quantity  and  delicious  flavor  of  its 
trout,  may  well  command  the  angler’s  attention.  Lakers 
are  frequently  taken  here  which  weigh  upwards  of  10  lbs. 
Trolling  with  the  “gang”  or  “spoon”  is  the  usual 
method.  Eagle  and  Utowana  Lakes — both  attractive 
sheets— also  abound  in  this  fish,  and  the  latter  is  a choice 
feeding-place  for  deer. 

Minnow  P.,  (1  * -J)  f m.  N.  E.  of  the  E.  end  of  Blue  Mt. 
Lake,  teems  with  speckled  trout  of  extraordinary  size, 
some  of  them  attaining  3 and  even  3J  lbs. 


Descriptive  guide.  191 

We  can,  only  advert  to  other  favorite  sporting  resorts 
in  general  terms. 

Two  m.  N.  E.  of  Minnow  P.,  is  Salmon  P.,  (1  x f) ; and 
it  is  the  same  distance  a little  S.  of  E,  to  Tirrell  P.  ( 1 * £)_ ; 
trapper’s  line.  Good  carry  from  Salmon  to  Tirrell  P , 1 m. 
S.  ; and  also  from  near  the  S.  end  of  Tirrell  P , to  Wolf 
( 2*2 — almost  as  round  as  a dollar,)  up  hill.  The 
waters  of  Tirrell  and  Minnow  P.,  as  well  as  of  the  lake, 
lave  the  base  of  the  huge  mass  (Blue  Mt.)  towering 
above  them.  South  P,  is  3 m.  N.  of  the  lake,  (p,  211  ;) 
Panther  Mt.  1 m.  N.  (deer  “yard”  on  this  mountain 
winters  ;)  Rock  L.,  (2f  x 2,)  4m.SE;  Rock  P , (J  * £,)  1 
m.  S.  ; Stephen’s  P , (J  * .£,)  2|  m.  S.  ; Cascade  P.,  2\  m. 
S.  ; Chain  Lakes,  9 m.  N.  E. 

Blue  Mt.  is  now  ascended  by  the  path  leading  from 
Hathorn’s  Camp,  (2\  m.)  The  ascent  is  very  gradual  for 
two-thirds  of  the  way.  A beautiful  cascade  leaping 
down  the  mountain  side,  is  revealed  by  diverging  a little 
to  the  left  of  the  path. 

A portion  of  the  top  has  been  recently  cleared  by  the 
State  Survey,  under  Verplanck  Colvin,  and  it  now  affords 
an  uninterrupted  view.  A trail  has  likewise  been  opened 
from  South  P.  to  the  summit  (4  rn.,)  and  a bark  cabin 
erected  within  \ m.  of  the  crest,  which  furnishes  com- 
fortable shelter. 

The  prospect  enjoyed  from  this  noted  pinnacle  is 
ample  award  for  the  toils  of  the  route. 

The  majestic  forest  stretching  interminably  away, — 
emblazoned  with  the  silvery  sheen  of  the  pearl  at  our  feet, 
the  queenly  Raquette,  and  a score  or  more  of  other 
gleaming  lakes  ; the  towering  forms  that  in  the  N.  attend 
the  sovereign  dome,  Tahawus,  “the  cleaver  of  the 
clouds  the  lofty  height  of  Snowy  Mt.  which  proudly 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


192 

bars  the  S. ; and  the  multitude  of  lesser  peaks  that  in 
billowy  masses  intervene,  present  a landscape  in  which 
are  garnered  all  the  elements  of  loveliness  and  sublimity. 

Boating  from  Blue  Mt.  Lake  has  an  extended  and 
delightful  range.  Passing  from  thence  to  Raquette  L , j 
(see  p.  193,)  and  making  a circuit  of  that  magnificent 
sheet,  in  an  examination  of  its  exquisite  bays,  points  and  ; 
various  inlets,  one  will  have  traveled  a hundred  miles 
with  the  interruption  of  but  a single  insignificant  carry 
(i  m.)  Then  there  is  the  almost  endless  navigation 
beyond.  Indeed,  nearly  every  desirable  resort  in  the  ■ 
Adirondacks  is  accessible  by  water  from  this  lake. 

Blue  Mt.  Lake,*  Eagle  and  Utowana  Lakes  are  com- 
prised in  the  “ Eckford  Chain,”  and  are  the  most  remote 
sources  of  the  Raquette  River.  The  serpentine  stream 
which  forms  their  outlet  is  locally  termed  East  Inlet,  or 
Marion  River.  It  discharges  into  a deep  bay  on  the  E. 
side  of  Raquette  Lake.  (See  pp.  201  and  202.) 

Near  the  head  of  Eagle  L.  is  located  the  famous 
“Eagle’s  Nest”  of  Ned  Buntline.  Here  for  several 
years  the  “ blood  and  thunder  ” novelist  had  his  abode, 
and  here  are  buried  two  children  and  a wife.  A cluster  of 
balsams,  in  the  form  of  a square,  mark  their  lonely  resting- 
place.  It  is  told  that  on  a fairy-like  islet  in  Blue  Mt. 
Lake  he  produced  some  of  his  most  sensational  stories. 

Mr.  H.  D.  Austin,  (P.  O.  Indian  Lake,  N.  Y.,)  now 
occupies  the  Buntline  house,  and  furnishes  sportsmen 
with  entertainment  and  supplies.  A hotel  is  in  process 
of  erection  near  by. 


* It  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  name  that  this  lake  and  mountain  originally 
bore  of  “ Emmons  ” (so  called  in  honor  of  the  eminent  Geologist)  was  not 
retained.  Eagle  was  also  christened  “Lake  Lyman,”  and  Utowana,  “Lake 


Descriptive  guide. 


‘93 


Round  Trip — Blue  Mt.  Lake  (Hatkoru' s.) 


To  foot  of  Lake,  - 

2 miles.  2 miles. 

Outlet,  ------ 

i 

tt 

2i 

tt ' 

Eagle  Lake,  - 

1 

tt 

3i 

a 

Outlet,  ------ 

i 

tt 

4 

u 

Utowana  Lake,  - 

2 

a 

6 

u 

Outlet,  - 

i 

tt 

64 

u 

Portage,  r.  ,* 

i 

tt 

64 

tt 

Marion  River,  - 

54 

t% 

12 

tt 

Raquette  Lake,  - - - 

74 

tt 

194 

tt 

Portage,  ------ 

4 

ft 

20 

tt 

Big  and  Little  Forked  Lakes, 

6 

a 

26 

tt 

Ponds  & Portages  to  L.Tupper  (p.  207) 

iif 

tt 

37l 

tt 

Little  Tupper  Lake,  - 

6 

tt 

43l 

n 

Outlet,  ------ 

1 

tt 

44i 

a 

Round  Pond,  - 

24 

tt 

47i 

tt 

Stream  & Portages  to  B.  Tupper  (p.  214)4! 

tt 

52 

tt 

Big  Tupper  Lake,  - 

7 

tt 

59 

n 

Raquette  R.  to  “ Mother  Johnson’s,” 

27 

tt 

86 

•< 

Portage,  _____ 

ii 

tt 

S7i 

u 

Raquette  River,  - 

6 

tt 

93i 

n 

Long  Lake  to  Kellogg’s, 

10 

tt 

IQ3i 

tt 

“ “ near  head, 

3i 

tt 

io6i 

n 

Portage,  _____ 

1 

tt 

10  7i 

tt 

South  Pond,  - 

ii 

tt 

109 

tt 

Portage  to  Blue  Mt.  Lake,  - 

3 

tt 

1 12 

n 

Lake  to  Hathorn’s,  - 

2 

tt 

1 14 

tt 

*The  region  immediately  S.  of  this  is  very  wild.  Carry  from  Marion  R. 
(1}  m.  below  the  Utowana  portage)  m.  N fair  path— to  reach  the  three 
Sargent  Ponds.  The  first  of  these  (f  * f ) — a beautiful  little  gem — is  almost  as 
circular  as  the  tracing  of  a compass.  The  second  (£  * 1-16)  is  a mere  mud 
hole  that  fish  scorn  to  inhabit.  The  third  (if  * J) — nearly  a mile  N.  of  the 
first,  the  second  lying  midway  between — is  irregular  in  shape,  and  charmingly 
indented  with  bays  and  capes.  The  surrounding  scenery  is  wild  and  picturesque. 
The  two  larger  ponds  are  very  deep,  and  the  home  of  numerous  lake  trout 
which  here  attain  unusual  proportions — some  weighing  as  high  as  a dozen 
pounds. 


12 


DIVISION  V. 


INTO  THE  GAROGA,  PLEASANT  AND  PISECO  LAKES  REGIONS. 

Amsterdam , Fonda , Little  Falls  and  Herkimer , loca- 
tions on  the  N,  Y.  C.  R.  R„  furnish  the  usual  modes 
of  access. 

Twenty-seventh — From  Amsterdam,  a pleasant  and 
thriving  village  on  the  banks  of  the  Mohawk,  Lake  Pleas- 
ant and  the  adjacent  waters  are  accessible  by  a good  stage  J 
route,  viz  : — Northville,  24  m;  Hope  Center,  6 m ; Benson,  .'! 
2 m ; Benson  Center,  3 m ; Wellstown,  3 m ; Sageville,  15 
m,  (Total  53  m).  Stages  daily  to  Northville,  thence  to 
Lake  Pleasant,  every  Wednesday  and  Saturday. 

Sageville,  the  shire  town  of  Hamilton  Co.,  is  delightfully 
located  midway  between  the  southern  extremities  of  Pleas- 
ant and  Round  Lakes,  -J  of  a m from  each.  Upon  an 
elevation  commanding  an  exquisite  view  of  these  lakes  and 
the  surrounding  country — cultivated  meadows  and  interm- 
inable forests  giving  richness  and  variety  to  the  landscape 
— is  situated  the  Holmes’  or  Lake  Pleasant  Hotel.  Four 
m N.  E.,  within  \ m of  the  outlet  of  Lake  Pleasant,  stands 
the  Sturgis  House,  also  most  agreeably  located.  Each 
house  has  a capacity  for  40  or  50  guests,  and  at  either 
place  visitors — including  ladies  as  well  as  gentlemen — will 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


1 95 


find  a few  weeks  of  summer  tarr / rendered  exceedingly 
enjoyable.  Both  hotel-keepers  are  popular  landlords  and 
sportsmen. 

Lake  Pleasant  is  about  4 m in  length  by  1 m in  width, 
and  its  outlet  feeds  the  E.  branch  of  the  Sacondaga  River, 
a tributary  of  the  Hudson. 

Round  Lake  is  nearly  as  long  and  about  twice  as  wide, 
and  is  quite  irregular  in  form,  lacking  much  of  being  cir- 
cular, as  its  name  would  indicate.  Hamilton  Lake  (1^  x %) 
lies  4 m S.  of  Sageville.  Little  Long  Lake  is  2\  m dis- 
tant. Ox  Bow  Lake  (ijx.-j)  lies  4 £ m S.  W.  on  the 
direct  road  to  Piseco  Lake,  2 beyond.  Comfortable 
roads  extend  from  both  hotels  to  all  these  lakes  and  to 
others  not  here  noted.  These  waters  all  pay  tribute  to 
the  Sacondaga.  The  Raquette  Region  is  connected  with 
this  section  by  intermediate  streams,  lakes  and  portages. 
A route  leads  to  the  Eckford  Chain  as  follows  : — Road 
from  Sageville  via  Sturgis’,  10  m ; boating  down  Jessup 
River,  15m;  Indian  Lake,  4 m ; road  to  Blue  Mt.  Lake, 
14  m.  By  following  the  first  named  road  6 m farther  (16) 
Louis  Lake  (ij^f) — an  attractive  sheet — is  reached. 
Its  outlet  which  is  navigable  for  small  boats,  flows  N.  E.  4 
m and  then  enters  Jessup  River  6 m from  Indian  Lake. 

Fish  and  game  are  generally  quite  plentiful  in  the  Lake 
Pleasant  Region.  Guides  will  be  found  at  either  hotel. 

Twenty-eighth — From  Fonda  (Fonda  Hotel),  another 
flourishing  village  pleasantly  situated  upon  the  Mohawk, 
the  Lake  Pleasant  waters  are  also  accessible  by  railroad 
to  Gloversville,  8 m,  (noted  for  its  immense  glove  manu- 
facturing interest)  ; and  from  thence  by  stage  to  Sageville 
via  North ville.  Total  distance,  54  m. 


ig6 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Route  to  Garoga  Lake  Region  : 

- 1 8 miles 

- 22  “ 

- 2 6 “ 

The  Garoga  Lakes,  two  crystal  sheets  about  i m in 
1,  are  connected  by  a neck  or  short  stream  which  lets  the 
waters  of  the  West  Lake  into  those  of  the  East  Lake. 
They  are  fountain  heads  of  the  Mohawk.  A little  vil- 
lage— Caroga — has  sprung  up  near  their  shores  and  a 
hotel  has  been  erected  here.  The  road  is  planked  between 
this  point  and  Fonda. 

Some  2 or  3 m W.  of  Garoga  Lakes  is  Fish  or  Canada 
Lake — also  sometimes  called  Lake  Byrn — a source  of  E. 
Canada  Creek.  It  is  irregular  in  shape,  being  in  reality 
two  lakes  linked  together  and  assuming  the  form  of  the 
letter  S.  The  West  Lake  (i  x £-)  discharges  its  waters 
into  the  East  Lake  (3  x 1).  Its  surroundings  are  quite 
romantic  ; the  surface  of  the  ground  rising  back  from  the 
shores  is  thickly  covered  with  boulders  of  unique  and 
fantastic  shapes.  Tradition  informs  us  that  in  this  neigh- 
borhood large  sums  of  money  were  once  buried  by  the 
Spaniards.  The  money  digger  however  has  met  with  no 
success  thus  far  in  his  toilsome  researches.  The  inlets 
flow  from  Pine,  Stink,  Mud,  Bellows,  Otter  and  Green 
Lakes.  There  is  a hotel  also  located  here. 

The  scenery  encompassing  Pine  Lake  (4  x 1)  is  quite 
interesting.  Agreeably  to  its  name  large  numbers  of  the 
“ princely  pine,”  adorn  its  borders. 

The  three  Stink  Lakes,  notwithstanding  their  unpoetic 
title,  are  quite  distinguished  for  their  beauty.  A great 
quantity  of  fish  being  once  washed  over  a beaver  dam 


From  Fonda  to  Garoga  Lakes,  - - 

“ “ Pine  Lake,  - - - 

“ “ Stink  Lakes,  - - - 


Descriptive  guide.  197 

near  these  lakes,  and  decaying  there,  suggested  the  offen- 
sive appellation. 

Lake  Good  Luck,  a few  miles  N.  of  the  Stink  Lakes, 
empties  into  the  W.  branch  of  the  Sacondaga  i|  m below 
Devereaux’s  Mills.  Perhaps  2 m below  the  outlet  of  this 
lake  is  Trout  Lake,  which,  as  its  name  intimates,  is  well 
stored  with  this  favorite  fish.  It  is  about  2 m below  this 
sheet  to  Satterlee’s  Mills,  located  on  the  W.  Sacondaga. 
By  following  the  course  of  this  rapid  stream  from  this 
point,  Piseco  Lake,  its  chief  fountain  head  may  be 
reached. — Trappers  of  New  York . 

Twenty-ninth  — From  Little  Falls  (Benton  and 
Hinchman  Houses),  a prosperous  manufacturing  village 
also  located  on  the  banks  of  the  Mohawk,  in  a deep  and 
romantic  gorge  (21  m E.  of  Utica),  several  routes  extend 
to  the  Piseco  Lake  Region.  Of  the  two  usually  selected 
one  passes  through  Fairfield,  Norway  and  Morehouseville, 
and  the  other  through  Salisbury  and  Devereaux.  The 
distance  from  Little  Falls  to  P'airfield  is  7-^  m ; thence  to 
Norway,  about  4 m ; Morehouseville,  20  m ; foot  of  Piseco 
Lake,  10  m ; to  the  settlement  (Piseco)  at  the  head  of  the 
lake,  6 m.  Total,  47^-  m.  The  distance  by  the  Salisbury 
route  is  about  the  same.  The  road  is  good  to  the  foot  of 
the  lake  ; from  thence  it  is  bad. 

The  little  village  of  Piseco,  once  containing  250  inhab- 
itants, is  now  nearly  deserted,  only  three  or  four  families 
remaining ; of  them  boats  may  be  procured.  Piseco 
Lake  (6*  x ij)  was  called  after  an  old  Indian  hermit 
by  the  name  of  “ Pezeeko,”  who  once  dwelt  upon  its 
shores.  Although  lying  near  the  borders  of  an  open 
country,  yet  it  is  mostly  surrounded  by  the  wilderness. 
Its  shores  are  generally  abrupt  and  picturesque,  which 
render  the  scenery  considerably  bold  and  striking. 


descriptive  guide. 


198 

Speckled  trout  fishing  is  good  in  its  inlets,  and  the  lake 
itself  furnishes  salmon  trout  in  considerable  quantities. 
Its  outlet  (W.  Sacondaga)  is  quite  broad  and  deep,  and  it 
affords,  together  with  a stream  entering  Gerundegut  Bay, 
also  near  the  foot  of  the  lake,  the  best  trouting  in  the 
vicinity.  Bullheads  abound  in  great  numbers  near  the 
head  of  the  lake.  There  are  feasible  connections  with 
other  lakes  and  ponds  by  the  inlets.  In  its  neighborhood 
(S.  E ) are  Mud  Lake  and  Spy  Lake.  Ox  Bow  Lake  and 
Lake  Pleasant,  as  before  noted,  lie  N.  E.  2 and  8 m. 
respectively.* 

A route  leads  from  the  foot  of  Piseco  L.  to  Fonda  as 
follows  : — Road  to  “ Shaker  Place,”  5 m.  ; Arietta,  9 m., 
(or  boat  up  S.  branch  Sacondaga,  14  m. ;)  Pine  L., 
1 Wheelerville,)  9 m.  ; Gloversville,  14  m.  ; thence  to 
Fonda,  8 m.  Total,  45  m.,  (p.  196.)  The  road  is  rough 
as  far  as  Arietta.  The  latter,  and  also  “ Shaker  Place,” 
are  good  fishing  points.  Only  a hut  at  Shaker  Place. 
Arietta  is  a hamlet  of  about  20  houses.  Board  obtained 
there  of  Hiram  Jones  ; — price  75  cts.  per  day.  Stage 
tri-weekly  from  Gloversville  to  Wheelerville,  (Pine  L.) 

Thirtieth — From  Herkimer,  (14  m.  E.  of  Utica,) 
located  near  the  confluence  of  W.  Canada  Creek  and  the 
Mohawk,  to  Norway  it  is  14  m.  Here  the  route  joins 
the  one  leading  from  Little  Falls.  Distance  from  Herk- 
imer to  head  of  Piseco  Lake,  50  m. 

At  Ilion  2\  m.  W.  of  Herkimer,  is  Remingtons’  im- 
mense Rifle  and  Pistol  Armory  of  world-wide  celebrity. 

* Later  advices  are  received  that  a hotel  has  been  built  on  Piseco  L. — a-§-  or  3 
m.  above  the  foot — by  Dan.  Rood,  which  supplies  excellent  fare.  Board,  $1.00 
per  day.  Surroundings,  wild  and  beautiful.  Also,  that  good  board  is  furnished 
by  Geo.  Youmans,  at  the  head  of  the  lake,  for  the  remarkably  low  price  of 
$ 7-I-  cts.  per  day.  Guests,  too,  are  allowed  the  fret  use  of  his  boats. 


•» 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  IQQ 


The  astonishing  success  which  has  attended  the  busi- 
ness career  of  the  Remingtons,  sufficiently  evinces  the 
superiority  of  the  various  arms  they  manufacture.  It  is 
emphatically  a remarkable  example  of  American  enter- 
prise, backed  by  the  genius  of  skillful  invention.  In 
their  mammoth  works — among  the  largest  of  the  kind 
in  the  world — are  produced  Single  and  Double-Barreled 
Muzzle  and  Breech-Loading  Rifles  and  Shot  Guns,  Rifle 
Canes,  Pistols  and  Revolvers,  which  are  marvels  in 
artistic  finish,  simple  mechanism,  and  telling  effective- 
ness. Their  Rifles  have  been  adopted  and 'are  largely 
used  by  nine  different  Governments-  Indeed,  several 
hundred  thousand  of  these  weapons  have  been  furnished 
to  Foreign  Powers  since  1867.  For  Hunting,  Target  and 
Military  purposes,  their  arms  are  renowned  throughout 
the  civilized  globe.  Branch  offices  have  been  established 
in  the  principal  cities  of  the  United  States,  and  a repre- 
sentative of  the  house  remains  permanently  in  Europe 
to  attend  to  their  interest  in  that  direction. 

The  recent  International  Contest  at  Creedmoor,  be- 
tween the  famous  victors  in  the  “ Elcho  Shield  Tourney” 
and  the  American  Team  of  the  Amateur  Club — the  first 


# 


200 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


great  rifle  match  ever  held  in  this  country — proved  not 
only  that  ours  is  pre-eminently  a land  of  riflemen,  but  that 
our  Breech-Loaders  are  in  every  respect  fully  equal  if 
not  superior  to  the  English  weapons.  It  was  unmistak- 
ably apparent,  too,  in  the  masterly  hands  of  Messrs. 
Fulton,  Hepburn  and  Bodine,  that  the  Remington  Gun 
possessed  extraordinary  merits.  These  able  marksmen, 
with  their  gallant  companions,  are  types  of  those  who  are 
to  give  to  Creedmoor  a celebrity  in  America  equal  to  that 
of  Wimbledon  in  Europe. 

Until  a comparatively  recent  date,  a Double-Barreled 
Breech-Loader  of  any  value  could  only  be  obtained  by 
importation  from  the  heavy-priced  factories  of  Europe, 
where  guns  are  made  almost  entirely  by  hand — a very 
expensive  process.  And  this  luxury  could  only  be  en- 
joyed by  people  of  ample  means.  Not  many  were  the 
sportsmen  who  could  afford  to  expend  from  $125  to  $350 
for  a gun.  But  thanks  to  the  inventive  talent  of  ingen- 
ious Americans  a revolution  has  taken  place  in  this 
matter,  and  machinery  has  been  constructed  which  per 
forms  its  mission  just  as  effectually  as  that  of  hand 
work  and  at  a fractional  part  of  the  expense.  Thus  the 
Double-Barreled  Breech-Loading  Shot  Guns  now  manu- 
factured by  the  Remingtons  for  from  $45  to  $75,  are  not 
surpassed  in  accuracy,  style  or  workmanship  by  Foreign 
productions  which  command  twice  or  thrice  the  money. 

To  sum  up,  the  shooting  capacity  of  the  Remington 
Guns — range,  penetration  and  general  efficiency  con- 
sidered— is  really  wonderful  ; and  the  producing  of 
arms  possessing  so  many  superior  qualities,  together 
with  great  durability  and  unusual  cheapness,  may  well 
be  pronounced  one  of  the  proudest  achievements  of 
\ merican  manufacturers. 


DIVISION  VI. 


THE  RAQUETTE  WATERS. 

Raquette  River  and  its  tributaries  form  the  most  im- 
portant water  system  of  the  Wilderness.  The  extent  of 
drainage  by  this  river  is  very  great.  Beginning  a little  N. 
of  the  center  of  Hamilton  County,  the  river  runs  north- 
easterly into  Franklin  County,  and  thence  northwesterly 
into  St.  Lawrence  County,  passing  on  through  Potsdam 
to  discharge  its  waters  into  the  St.  Lawrence.  Reference 
to  a map  will  show  the  number  of  the  large  and  important 
lakes  and  the  numerous  ponds  which  have  their  outflow  in 
this  direction.  These  waters,  lying  in  the  heart  of  the 
Wilderness,  have  long  enjoyed  the  highest  reputation  as  a 
sporting  territory. 

Raquette  is  the  largest  and  most  remarkable  lake  of 
the  Wilderness.  Its  elevation  is  1,731  feet.  Its  greatest 
length  is  12  m.  The  peculiar  form  of  this  lake  undoubt- 
edly  suggested  its  French  name,  of  which  the  word 
“ Racket  is  a corruption.  Raquette  signifies  snow-shoe, 
also  cactus  or  prickly  pear.  Perhaps  some  fancied  resem 
blance  between  this  plant  and  the  peculiar  arrangement 
of  the  bays  of  the  lake  will  account  for  its  designation. 

The  original  settlers  at  Raquette  Lake  were  Messrs. 
Beach  and  Wood,  an  appropriate  combination  of  names  for 


202 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


that  vicinity.  The  former  died  in  1862,  and  the  latter, 
after  residing  here  with  his  family  for  20  years,  removed 

to  Elizabethtown,  where  his  death  recently  occurred. 

[ Colton  s Map  of  the  New  York  Wilderness. 

A description  of  this  almost  matchless  lake  has  already 
been  given  in  the  former  part  of  this  work.  Let  us 
examine  a few  of  its  most  interesting  environs. 

It  is  supposed  that  Lake  Lldon  (1  x -£),  the  forest  pearl  ly- 
ing near  ‘’Wood’s  Place,”  and  Raquette  Lake  were  originally 
one  body  of  water,  and  that  the  belt  of  separation,  only  6 
or  8 rods  in  width,  was  the  work  of  beavers. 

Marion  River  (East  Inlet;,  whose  lily-paved  surface 
furnishes  immense  pasturage  for  deer,  is  frequently  visited 
for  the  purpose  of  floating.  The  reader  is  reminded  that 
up  this  stream  lies  the  route  to  Blue  Mountain  Lake. 

The  bread  and  deep  South  Inlet  is  the  “highway”  to 
several  objects  of  interest  to  the  sportsman.  Its  crystal 
waters  are  numerously  inhabited  by  the  silvery  denizens 
of  that  element,  and  near  the  landing  just  below  the 
picturesque  falls,  some  2 m up  the  stream,  a famous  spring 
hole  is  pointed  out  where  30  pounds  of  brook  trout  have 
been  caught  at  “ a sitting.”  Amid  the  foam  and  eddies 
of  the  falls,  too,  angling  generally  meets  with  its  full  reward. 
The  scenery  investing  this  spot  is  replete  with  beauty  and 
primitive  wildness,  richly  compensating  the  visitor  for  his 
journey  thither. 

Shedd  Lake  (I  x ^),  a most  romantic  sheet  with  wild 
and  rocky  surroundings,  is  reached  by  a carry  of  ij  m 
S.,  leading  1 from  a point  near  the  falls  and  this  Lke  is 
connected  with  Fonda  Lake  (2  x f)  by  a carry  of  2 m S. 

Mohagan  Pond  x ^),  directly  W.  of  Fonda  L.,  is  acces- 
sible by  a portage  of  3 m,  starting  (r)  from  South  Inlet 
P'alls.  Though  not  feasibly  reached  with  boats,  yet 


KAQUETTE  LAKE  ADD  MUliKAY’S  ISLAND. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  203 

the  stream  may  be  descended  by  thajj  mode.  This  pond, 
as  “ Capt.”  Parker  informs  us,  has  not  yet  teen  opened  to 
the  sporting  public  but  is  kept  in  reserve.  It  is  thronged 
with  trout  and  is  the  common  haunt  of  deer.  Mohagan 
Pond  and  Shedd  Lake  are  the  headwaters  of  the  South 
Inlet ; and  Fonda  Lake  of  the  S.  branch  of  Moose  R. 

Access  is  gained  to  Shallow  Lake  and  “ Nameless 
Creek,”  and  to  nameless  quantities  of  the  “ gamiest  and 
brightest-tinted  trout,”  by  the  following  route,  starting 
from  the  head  of  Marryatt’s  Bay  on  W.  side  of  the  lake, 
about  7 m above  the  outlet : — Pass  up  Sucker  Brook, a 
short  distance  with  boats ; thence  carry  i m ; thence 
cross  Cranberry  Pond,  of  which  this  brook  is  the  outlet, 
I2  m ; thence  ascend  the  inlet  to  Shallow  Lake,  3^  m. 
The  latter  portion  of  the  route  is  very  tedious,  as  the 
stream  is  narrow,  winding,  and  shallow,  and  for  a consid- 
erable distance  boats  can  hardly  be  floated.  The  stream 
divides  on  the  way,  and  there  the  left  branch  must  be 
taken. 

A good  story  is  told  in  reference  to  this  spot,  of  Mr.  A. 
F.  Tait,  the  artist,  who,  in  passing  over  this  route,  accom- 
panied by  his  guide,  Capt.  Parker,  mistook  the  direction  by 
taking  the  right  branch.  After  struggling  for  hours  in  an 
effort  to  navigate 'the  almost  unnavigable  stream,  they  dis- 
covered to  their  chagrin  that  it  terminated  in  a dismal 
swamp  and  were  obliged  to  retrace  their  course.  Then, 
that  others  might  not  suffer  from  a similar  error,  Capt. 
Parker  kindly  (?)  placed  a guide  post  at  the  forks,  on  which 
was  rudely  inscribed,  “Take  this,stream for  Shallow  Lake!' 
But  in  his  haste  to  benefit  (?)  his  fellow-sportsmen,  he  inad- 
vertently caused  the  index  finger  to  point  the  wrong  way. 
A party  soon  following  were  sufferers  from  the  mistake , 
and  late  in  the  day  found  themselves  quartered  upon  one 


204 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


of  the  bogs  of  that  cheerless  marsh,  where  they  were 
forced  to  bivouac  for  a night. 

It  was  upon  a flat  rock  in  Shallow  Lake  that  Mr.  Mur- 
ray, the  “ sportsman  par  excellence ,”  and  his  “ faithful 
John,”  received  their  delicious  sunning.  No  wonder  they 
were  weary,  for  the  toils  of  the  day  had  been  most  exhaust- 
ing. Since  morning  well  advanced,  they  had  passed  from 
Brandreth’s  to  Raquette  Lake,  carrying  the  boat  across  the 
intervening  4 m portage  ; and  from  thence  had  rowed,  and 
poled  and  dragged  that  Spanish  cedar  shell  over  the 
balance  of  the  laborious  route.  And  after  their  sun-bath 
was  concluded,  it  was  from  this  lake, — “shut  in  on  all 
sides  by  mountains,  mirrored  from  base  to  summit  in 
its  placid  bosom,  bordered  here  with  fresh  green 
grass,  and  there  with  reaches  of  golden  sand,  and  again 
with  patches  of  lilies  whose  fragrance,  mingled  with 
the  scent  of  balsam  and  pine,  filled  the  air,  reposing 
unruffled  and  serene,” — that  they  proceeded  to  that  “Name- 
less Creek,”  which  yielded  to  them  in  such  rich  numbers, 
its  speckled  treasures. — [Plumbley. 

Nameless  Creek  flows  from  2 charming  lakelets,  each 
about  i m in  length,  discovered  by  “John,”  and  by  him 
named  the  Murray  Ponds.  As  it  requires  tremendous 
exertion  to  reach  them,  no  boat  has  ever  yet  ploughed 
their  waters,  which  are  literally  alive  with  trout. 

Boulder,  or  Beaver  Creek,  entering  Raquette  Lake  on 
the  E,  side,  is  another  trout-swarming  resort.  The  3 Sar 
gent  Ponds,  of  which  this  stream  is  the  outlet,  are  hardly 
accessible  by  water.  They  are  most  conveniently  visited 
by  way  of  the  Carthage  road,  from  which  a pathway  leads 
(r)  to  them,  starting  from  a point  3 m E.  of  Cary’s.  Dis- 
tance from  the  road  1 m. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


205 

Parties  visiting  Raquette  Lake,  usually  camp  on  Ospray 
or  Murray’s  Island,  Wood’s  Place,  Indian  Point,  West 
Point  and  North  Bay.  Constable’s  Point,  long  so  popu- 
lar as  a camping  place,  has  become  too  barren  of  trees  to 
be  any  longer  desirable  for  such  a use. 

Cary  s Hotel  is  the  only  habitation  in  the  vicinity.  It 
is  located  near  the  outlet,  between  Raquette  and  P'orked 
Lakes,  within  i m of  the  former  and  f m of  the  latter. 
This  old  established  forest  inn  is  often  visited  by  par- 
ties passing  through  from  the  Saranac  and  Long  Lake 
sections  to  the  Raquette  waters.  The  Carthage  road 
passes  near  the  door,  and  the  distance  to  Long  Lake  Vil- 
lage  is  1 si  m.  In  going  from  Raquette  to  Forked  Lake 

guides  sometimes  run  the  rapids  occurring  in  the  outlet - 

i m in  extent— but  the  transit  is  usually  made  over  the 
pleasant  portage  of  -J  m. 

At  “ Forked  Lake  Landing,”  upon  the  site  of  Helms 
old  sporting  house,  long  since  destroyed  by  fire,  is  an 
admirable  location  for  a hotel,  and  we  marvel  that  Mr. 
Cary  does  not  remove  his  residence  there,  or  that  Mr. 

, Helms  does  not  rebuild.  The  ground,  from  its  smoothly 
sloping  heights,  commands  an  extended  view  of  this  mag- 
nificent lake. 

Messrs.  John  D.  Clute,  A.  Benedict,  W.  R.  Mead  and 
several  other  gentlemen,  all  of  New  York  city,  are  exten- 
sive property-holders  in  this  section.  Their  lands  embrace 
Townships  35,  36,40,  45,  and  5 of  “ Totten  and  Cross- 
field’s Purchase,”  and  comprise  Forked,  Raquette,  and  a 
large  portion  of  Little  Tupper  Lake;  also  the  Eighth 
and  i of  the  Seventh  Lake,  of  the  Moose  River  Chain, 
besides  numerous  smaller  bodies  of  water,  all  of  which 
possess  rare  points  of  interest.  What  a “snug  little 
farm,  and  what  a glittering  array  of  lovely  “ trout  ponds.” 


20  6 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Ah,  for  a “ Central  Park  ” formed  of  such  materials,  or 
for  a “ Grand  Adirondack  Park,”  embracing  the  entire 
Wilderness  Region. 

Big  Forked  Lake  is  about  7 m in  length  and  is  most 
appropriately  named.  Its  numerous  bays  and  indenta- 
tions, points  and  headlands,  render  it  most  decidedly 
forked.  The  inlet  flowing  from  Brandreth’s  Lake  (W.) 
is  navigable  in  the  spring  to  within  rj  m of  its  source. 

Plumbley  Pond  (1  x -|),  a noted  deer  haunt,  is  reached 
by  a carry  of  | m,  leading  N.  E.  from  a point  opposite  the 
mouth  of  the  Raquette  Inlet,  which  enters  Forked  Lake 
2 m below  the  “ Landing.”  It  was  named  from  its  dis- 
coverer— “John” — who  upon  that  occasion  won  a wager 
from  a surveyor,  who  insisted  that  it  was  one  of  the 
“prongs”  of  Forked  Lake. 

Little  Forked  Lake  (2  x 1)  may  be  considered  an  exten- 
sion of  the  larger  lake,  as  the  stream  connecting  them  is 
deep  and  short,  and  has  considerable  breadth.  It  is  the 
“ mother  lake  ” in  miniature,  and  fairly  sparkles  with  pic- 
turesque attractions.  A moss-covered,  rocky  bluff,  to  the 
r of  the  point  of  entrance,  is  frequently  occupied  by  the 
hunter  as  a look-out  for  deer.  By  facing  to  the  S.  W., 
from  the  middle  portion  of  the  lake,  a noble  prospect  of 
water  and  mountain  scenery  is  obtainable. 

High  Pond  lies  a short  distance  W.  of  its  lower  extrem- 
ity. At  the  head  of  the  lake,  E.  side,  which  is  about  6 m 
from  Helms  Landing,  there  is  a well-sheltered  camp,  near 
which  is  a copious  spring.  We  make  a note  of  these 
“ natural  reservoirs,”  as  sportsmen  fully  appreciate  their 
value  when  camping  out.  A carry  leads  from  this  camp 
m N.  E.  to  Moose  Pond  (ii*|),  another  noted  deer 
resort.  And  from  the  same  point  starts  the  route  from 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  20/ 

Little  Forked  Lake  to  Little  Tupper  Lake  : 


Portage  (N.  W.),  - --  --  -- 
Cary  Pond  (near  Moose  Mt.),*  - - 

Inlet,  - --  --  --  --  -- 

Portage  (N.  W.),  ------- 

Sutton  Pond,  (very  pretty),  - - - 

Portage  (N.  W.),  ------- 

Bottle  Pond  (<fo^/^-shaped),  - - - 

Portage  (N.  W.)  (rough  and  swampy), 
Rock  Pond  (rock-g irded  and  romantic), 
Portage  (N.),  - --  --  --  - 

Stream  to  Little  Tupper  L.,  - - - 


f miles- 

i “ 

20  rods. 

\ miles. 
* 

I “ 


i 

1 

2* 

2 

i 

3 


<< 

u 

u 

tt 

it 

ft 


Total,  (nearly) 


uf  “ 


[See  route  from  Smith' s Lake  to  Little  Tupper , page 

43]- 


Rock  Pond  was  the  scene  of  Mr.  Murray’s  loon-shoot  - 
ing  adventure.  “The  story  was  correct,”  said  “John,” 
“ with  one  exception.  Mr.  M.  forgot  to  add  that  Charley 
Mead  and  Jerry  Plumbley,  helped  pick  that  loon.” 

From  Helms  Landing  at  Big  Forked  Lake  to  the 
outlet,  the  distance  is  4 m. 

Owl’s  Head,  with  its  barren  twin  domes,  and  the  dark 
masses  of  the  Adirondacks,  come  out  in  grand  relief  as 
we  journey  in  that  direction.  Encountering  the  rapids  at 
the  outlet,  travelers  land  at  the  r and  pass  around  them, 
unless  they  prefer  to  shoot  them  a la  Murray.  The  first 
portage,  though  a long  one  (if)  m),  is  not  very  difficult 
From  thence  there  is  boating  1 m to  Buttermilk  Falls. 


*New  Pond,  three-fourth  miles  N.  W.,  empties  into  Cary  Pond. 


208 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Thence  we  carry  down  a steep  descent  50  r and  then  fol- 
low the  stream  again  for  J m.  Landing  on  the  r,  we  pass 
over  the  last  portage  m to  Long  Lake.  Splendid  spring 
on  this  carry. 

Long  Lake  is  1 3^  m in  length  and  varies  from  a few  rods  to 
i-J  m in  breadth.  The  Carthage  road  passes  along  the  mar- 
gin of  the  lake  on  the  E.  side  as  far  as  Long  Lake  Vil- 
lage (3-Jm),  where  it  turns  to  the  eastward.  On  this  road, 
J m below  the  inlet,  is  the  humble  home  of  John  E.  Plumb- 
ley,  popularly  known  as  “ Honest  John.”  From  what  we 
have  seen  of  Mr.  P.  we  believe  he  is  entitled  to  all  the 
credit  he  has  received  from  Mr.  Murray  as  a faithful,  effi- 
cient, and  trustworthy  guide.  His  age  is  about  45  years 
and  he  is  a true  representative  of  these  iron-moulded, 
wild-wood  conductors.  The  cultivation  of  his  farm  and 
the  building  of  boats — those  graceful  Adirondack  crafts — • 
occupy  his  attention  when  not  actin^^&-4j*uide.  His 
father,  Joel  Plumbley,  located  here  hearly  40  years  ago, 
and  was  the  first  settler  on  the  shores  of  Long  Lake  ; and 
his  eldest  son,  Jerry,  was  the  first  child  born  of  white 
parents  in  the  neighborhood.  “John  ” is  an  ardent  admirer 
of  Mr.  Murray.  Familiar  as  he  is  with  his  biographer’s 
characteristics,  it  is  not  surprising.  What  he  says  of  this 
enthusiastic  sportsman  is  thus  summed  up Mr.  Mur- 
ray is  tall  and  athletic,  being  six  feet,  two,  and  finely  pro- 
portioned. And  he  is  as  noble  at  heart  as  he  is  manly  in 
form.  No  guides  in  his  employ  are  ever  ill-used,  or  over- 
taxed ; on  the  contrary,  he  never  fails  to  consider  their 
wants  and  comfort.  If  a hard  day’s  work  is  to  be  per- 
formed, he  insists  upon  taking  the  burden  of  it  upon  his 
own  shoulders.  He  invariably  carries  his  own  boat — a 
light,  unique  piece  of  workmanship,  manufactured  out  of 
Spanish  cedar,  imported  expressly  for  him.  Many  a time 


Descriptive  guide.  ^09 

have  I returned  to  the  camp,  late  in  the  evening,  after  a 
difficult  trip,  to  find  that  Mr.  Murray,  had  with  his  own 
hands,  prepared  for  me  a warm  supper.  God  bless  the 
man  who  is  kind  to  the  guides!”  Amen,  say  we  to  that. 

Mr.  Cary’s  pleasantly-situated  residence — hereafter  to 
be  employed  as  a hotel — stands  a short  distance  N.  of  Mr. 
Plumbley’s.  Pursuing  the  same  road  ^ m farther  toward 
the  village- (2|  m distant),  “ Uncle  Palmer’s”  delightful 
situation  is  reached,  where  tidy  accommodations  are  fur- 
nished to  boarders  and  transient  visitors.  Uncle  Palmer 
— a genial  man  of  62 — has  dwelt  at  this  place  a score  of 
years,  and  many  are  the  interesting  incidents  he  gives 
from  his  experience  since  locating  among  the  wilds  of 
Long  Lake. 

The  town  of  Long  Lake,  though  embracing  an  area  of 
440  square  miles,  contains  a population  of  only  300  peo- 
ple, (including  the  family  of  Wm.  Helms,  the  well-known 
guide),  living  in  the  village  and  scattered  along  the  shores 
of  the  lake  for  several  miles. 

There  is  no  locking  doors  o’nights  in  this  fo  est-ocked 
hamlet — locally  called  “Gougeville” — as  burglaries  are  never 
committed  here.  Indeed,  we  know  of  but  one  misde- 
meanor recorded  upon  the  archives  of  Long  Lake  Village  ; 
that  was  the  vindictive  burning  of  a boat.  The  perpetra- 
tor of  that  outrage  fleeing,  was  pursued  by  officer  Smith, 
who,  to  use  his  own  language,  went  into  the  woods  “30  m 
perpendicular  after  him,”  finally  effected  his  capture  in 
the  Tupper  Lake  section,  and  led  him  home  from  thence 
with  a dog  chain. 

At  the  substantial  residence  of  Mitchell  Sabattis,  sports- 
men are  provided  with  rooms  and  also  with  supplies. 
His  farm  is  kept  in  prime  condition  and  everything  con- 
nected with  the  premises  bespeaks  thrift  and  enterprise 

13 


210 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


This  noble  red  man  is  of  pure  Indian  extraction,  belong- 
ing to  the  St.  Francis  tribe,  and  was  born  in  the  year  1825, 
at  Parishville,  St.  Laurence  County,  N.  Y.  His  sons,  John 
and  Isaac,  verify  the  old  proverb — “ like  father,  like  son” — 
as  they  too  are  most  excellent  men  and  guides.  Nor  are 
these  the  only  capable  guides  who  live  in  the  neighborhood. 
Gladly  would  we  favor  each  of  the  many  residing  here, 
with  a separate  notice,  if  space  would  permit.  We  might 
speak  of  Capt.  P — , the  wag,  the  fisher  ; Clark  F — , the  gen- 
tleman, the  panther-slayer  ; Reuben  C — , the  “ faithful,  the 
fearless;”  Lysander  H — , the  talker,  the  fiddler;  Amos  H — , 
the  dispreet,  the  reticent  ; and  so  on  to  the  end  ; but  we 
must  pass  on  ; so  no  jealousy,  gentlemen — we  cannot 
mention  you  all. 

The  Long  Lake  Hotel,  recently  re-fitted  and  enlarged, 
now  affords  attractive  accommodations  to  a large  number 
of  guests,  and  offers  peculiar  inducements  to  tempt  a 
lengthened  stay.  Trout  and  venison  are  staple  dishes, 
and  the  courteous  host,  Cyrus  H.  Kellogg,  is  as  thoroughly 
conversant  with  the  needs  of  his  patrons  as  he  is  with  all 
the  minutiae  of  woodland  life.  Proprietor,  too,  of  a store 
here,  and  of  the  stage  line  to  the  settlements,  what  man 
could  be  better  calculated  to  meet  the  requirements  of 
those  seeking  a quiet  resting  place  in  the  heart  of  the  Adi- 
rondacks,  or  sporting  adventures  in  camping  out.  Stages 
leave  Long  Lake  Village  for  Pottersville  (41  m distant) 
every  Monday  ; connecting  at  Minervia  (33  m distant) 
with  another  stage  line  running  to  North  Creek,  a station 
on  the  Adirondack  R.  R.,  6 m farther  S., — enabling  passen- 
gers to  reach  the  cars  on  Tuesday.  Fare  to  North  Creek. 
$5.00.  From  thence  stages  return  on  the  following  Thurs- 
day. Hence  those  who  have  occasion  to  correspond, with 
Mr.  Kellogg  (P.  O.  “ Long  Lake  Village,  Hamilton  Co., 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  21 1 

N.  Y.,)  or  with  L.  L.  guides,  will  bear  in  mind  that  but 
one  mail  weekly  is  there  received  and  will  therefore  make 
due  allowance  for  delays  in  communicating  with  them.  A 
rumor  reaches  us  that  stages  will  run  tri-weekly  in  future 
during  summer  travel. 

South  Pond  (2  x f),  one  of  the  finished  beauties  of  the 
Wilderness,  lies  1 m E.  of  the  head  of  Long  Lake,  and  is 
reached  by  road  and  pathway  leading  from  a point  a short 
distance  S.  W.  of  Plumbley’s  place.  The  route  passes  over 
a high  cleared  elevation  which  overlooks  a magnificent 
landscape.  From  thence  the  path  (W.)  descends  quite 
abruptly  through  the  forest  to  the  pond.  Near  the  land- 
ing is  an  ice-cold  spring.  This  little  lake  is  thickly  stud- 
ded with  island  gems,  most  picturesquely  commingling,  and 
Blue  Mountain,  majestic  and  beautiful,  rises  not  far  from 
its  borders.  In  this  wild  and  secluded  place,  Mr.  A.  F.  Tait 
has  erected  and  nicely  furnished  a sylvan  lodge  ; and  here 
are  produced  some  of  those  exquisite  paintings  that  delight 
so  many  eyes.  We  doubt  not  his  genius  gathers  inspira- 
tion from  such  surroundings,  for  never  was  the  studio  of 
an  artist  placed  in  a lovelier  spot.  A master  hand  is  his 
in  throwing  the  fly,  floating  for  deer,  or  making  the  canvas 
glow  with  life ! 

Blue  Mountain  Lake,  3 m S.  E.  of  South  Pond,  is 
reached  by  a “ winter  road.” 

Tirrell  Pond,  N.  E.,  is  rarely  visited  and  we  believe  not 
particularly  interesting. 

To  ascend  Owl’s  Head  Mountain,  pass  up  the  creek, 
entering  Long  Lake  just  below  Slim  Point  and  nearly 
opposite  Palmer’s  place,  as  far  as  practicable  with  boats  ; 
thence  follow  path  leading  1 from  the  stream.  The  ascent 
is  gradual  and  easy  until  the  summit  is  nearly  attained. 
The  distance  from  base  to  crown  is  2\  or  3 m.  This  mount- 


212 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


ain  has  two  peaks,  both  of  which  are  rocky  and  bare.  The 
first  one  we  have  just  ascended.  The  second  and  taller 
peak  is  visited  by  crossing  the  depression  that  intervenes 
between  the  two.  There  is  no  beaten  path,  but  the  walk- 
ing is  not  difficult,  as  the  woods  are  clean  and  smooth. 
This  peak  is  also  ascended  by  following  a “ line  ” that 
starts  from  a point  opposite  Cary’s  residence.  On  this 
side  of  the  mountain,  nearly  midway  between  base  and 
summit  and  about  2 m from  Long  Lake,  is  a “ real  liquid 
gem,”  called  Owl’s  Head  Pond.  Its  water  is  beautifully 
clear,  its  bed  is  composed  of  the  purest  sand,  and  its 
depths  are  inhabited  by  numerous  trout. 

Route  from  Long  L^ke  to  Little  Tup  per  Lake,  via  Clear , 
Slim  and  Stony  Ponds. 


Portage  (W.  from  opposite  Kellogg’s),  - - 

- i 

miles. 

Clear  Pond  (if  x i),  - - - - - - - - 

i 

u 

Portage  (N.  E.),  (rough), 

- 

« 

Mud  Pond,  - --  --  - 

f 

« 

Inlet,  - --  --  - 

- IO 

rods. 

Little  Slim  Pond  (good  camp  here),  - - - 

I 

miles. 

Big  “ “ - - 

- 2 

a 

Inlet  (narrow  and  shallow), - 

4 

i< 

Portage,  - - - - - 

- 30 

rods. 

Stony  Pond,  - --  --  --  --  - 

4 

miles. 

Portage  (W.  from  N.  W.  shore),  - - - 

- f 

Total,  - - - - ioj  “ 


Pleasant  camping  places  and  good  sporting  on  this 
route. 

Clear  Pond  is  a delightful  sheet,  nestling  at  the  base  of 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


213 

Owl’s  Head  Mountain.  Like  Round  Lake  its  pellucid 
waters  are  quickly  agitated  into  dangerous  waves  by  every 
moderate  breeze.  A sad  event  once  happened  here.  Three 
men  shantying  in  the  neighborhood,  disappeared  and  were 
never  afterwards  seen.  But  their  boat,  found  drifting  along 
the  shore,  and  a cap  and  satchel  discovered  near  by, 
together  with  the  great  distress  of  their  faithful  dog — a 
mute  witness  of  the  accident — indicated  as  strongly  as 
words,  the  nature  of  their  fate.  Their  bodies  were  not 
recovered,  as  the  pond  froze  over  soon  after  the  oc- 
currence, and  when  the  ice  went  out  in  the  spring  it  was 
piled  4 to  6 ft.  high  on  the  shore.  The  affair  was  then 
regarded  as  quite  mysterious. 

Grampus  Lake  is  visited  by  ascending  Big  Brook  (a 
stream  entering  on  the  W.  side  of  Long  Lake  about  3 m 
below  Kellogg’s)  as  far  as  possible,  carrying  from  thence  f 
m to  Mud  Pond;  and  thence  to  the  lake  2-|  m;  also  by  follow- 
ing a path  leading  from  near  the  mouth  of  Black  Brook  4 
m W.  Boats  are  kept  at  Grampus  L.  which  obviates  the 
necessity  of  transporting  them  thither. 

Handsome  Pond,  most  properly  named,  is  reached 
from  Grampus  L. — distance  1 m N. 

Mohegan  Pond  lies  an  equal  distance  away  in  a more 
westerly  direction. 

A portage  of  1 m,  starting  from  a point  1 m below  the 
Grampus  Lake  carry,  connects  Long  Lake  with  Rock 
Pond  (1  x ^). 

The  Anthony  Ponds  are  accessible  by  boating  |mup 
their  outlet,  which  empties  into  Long  Lake  (W.  side)  about 
3 m above  the  foot,  and  carrying  from  thence  \ m S.  W 
These  3 pretty  lakelets  are  linked  by  short  channels,  and 
boats  pass  freely  from  one  to  another. 


i 


2i4 


DESCRIPTIVE  GtJlDE. 


Route  from  Kellogg's  to  the  Tup  per  Lakes. 


Long  Lake,  - --  --  --  --  --  io 

Via.  Raquette  River  to  Cold  River,  r.  - - - i 

“ “ “ Rapids,  ------  5 

“ Portage  to  Johnson’s,  r,  (Raquette  Falls),  - ij 
“ Raquette  R.  to  Palmer  Brook,  r,  - - - 2 

“ “ “ Stony  Creek,  r,  - - - | - 4 

“ “ “ Calkin’s,  r,  - - - - - \ 

“ “ “ Folingsby’s  Brook,  1,-  - - 4^ 

“ “ “ Daniel’s  (Sweeny  Carry),  r,  - 4 

" “ “ Half-Way  Brook,  r,  - - - 1 J 

“ “ “ Rapids,  ------  2f 

“ “ “ Great  Oxbow,  1,  - - - - 1 

“ " “ Moody’s,  ------  2 

“ “ “ Stetson’s,  ------  2 

“ " “ McBride’s — Simon’s  Pond,  - 1 

“ Big  Tupper  Lake,  - - - 1 
Big  Tupper  Lake,  - --  --  --  --  7 

Portage  (Bog  River  Falls),  - - - - - -15 
Bog  River,  - --  --  --  --  --  2 

Little  Tupper  L.  Stream,  -------  J 

Portage,  1,  ----------  - £ 

Stream,  -------------  1 

Portage,  1, - - - - ij 

Round  Pond,  - - - - 24- 

Stream  to  Little  Tupper  Lake, 1 


miles 

« 

u 

a 

it 

u 

u 

u 

a 

a 

a 

a 

u 

a 

u 

a 

a 

rods. 

miles. 

a 

a 

a 

a 

a 

a 


Total, 


59 


Leaving  Keliogg’s  agreeable  retreat  and  paddling  down 
this  beautiful  lake,  we  are  afforded  an  opportunity  to  exam- 
ine its  many  romantic  features.  First  we  shall  admire 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


215 


Round  Island,  which  robed  in  its  rich  dress  of  Norway 
pines,  presents  a striking  similitude  to  Dome  Island,  in 
Lake  George.  With  Headley,  “ we  would  like  to  own 
that  island.  It  would  be  pleasant  to  be  possessor  of  so 
much  beauty.”  A singular  illusion  characterizes  Round 
Island.  When  approaching  it  from  the  N.  it  seems  ever 
at  the  same  distance,  until  it  is  very  nearly  reached. 
Other  handsome  islands  grace  this  lake,  but  none  possess 
so  many  charms  as  this.  The  scenery  continues  to  improve 
as  we  approach  the  outlet,  some  2 m from  which  we  obtain 
a superb  view  of  the  Adirondack  battlements  which 
tower  towards  the  heavens  in  infinite  majesty. 

Here  we  pass  another  pretty  island  with  picturesque 
shores,  upon  which  has  recently  been  erected  a sports- 
man’s hotel.  Our  host,  John  Davis,  of  the  “ Aunt  Polly 
Inn,”  at  the  village  of  Newcomb,  about  12  m distant,  is 
its  proprietor.  His  boarders  alternate  between  the  two 
places,  which  are  in  communication  with  each  other  by  the 
romantic  route  from  Newcomb  to  Long  Lake  via  Gatlin 
Lake.  (See  page  176.)  “ My  boarders  change  once  a 

week,”  quoth  John,  “staying  at  the  ‘Aunt  Polly’  one 
week,  and  then  going  over  to  the  ‘ Island  House’ — meet- 
ing half  way  the  party  coming  from  there,  and  all  dining 
together — a very  pleasant  arrangement.” 

At  Buck  Mt.  Point,  on  the  W.  shore,  nearly  opposite 
Camp  Island,  stands  a comfortable  shanty  which  is  fre- 
quently occupied  by  sporting  parties,  as  the  place  besides 
being  a beautiful  situation,  is  remarkably  free  from  insects. 

At  the  head  of  a charming  bay,  W.  of  the  outlet,  on  a 
smooth,  grassy  bluff,  within  the  grateful  shadow  of  a pine 
grove,  is  an  oft-frequented  camping  place.  Bowen’s  de- 
serted clearing  is  immediately  back  of  it.  From  this  lit- 
tle eminence,  facing  southward,  we  again  survey  a rich 


216 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


and  impressive  landscape.  On  the  right  we  see.  Buck  and 
the  Rock  Pond  Mountains,  rising  with  rugged  summits  \ 
to  the  left,  Blue  Peak,  with  verdured  symmetry,  dips  grace- 
fully to  the  water  s edge  ; in  front,  the  lake,  in  transcend- 
ent beauty,  spreads  away  until  lost  in  the  deep  green  of 
the  forest.  Traces  of  the  “ Old  Military  Road  ” and  the 
log  abutments  of  the  bridges  once  spanning  the  outlet 
over  which  it  passed,  are  still  apparent.  It  seems  hardly 
credible  that  the  tramp  of  a marching  army  has  ever 
echoed  in  these  vast  solitudes. 

Leaving  Long  Lake,  we  enter  the  Raquette  and  are 
soon  floating  down  this  noble  stream.  Cold  River,  which 
discharges  its  trout-burdened  waters  i m below,  is  navigable 
for  5 m when  swollen  by  the  freshets  of  spring,  but  only 
i t*13*  distance  in  mid-summer  time.  From  its  mouth  to 
Mt.  Seward  it  is  12  m,  through  the  densest  and  most  sav- 
age portion  of  the  Great  Wilderness.  Verplanck  Colvin, 
whose  explorations  in  the  interest  of  Geographical  and 
General  Science,  have  proved  of  such  value  to  the  Bota- 
nist and  other  scientific  men,  says,  in  a letter  to  us  in  ref- 
erence to  this  mountain  “ There  is  no  trail  to  the  sum- 
mit of  Mt.  Seward,  save  some  blazings  which  we  made ; 
the  ascent  is  difficult,  and  I have  the  honor,  I believe,  to 
be  the  first  person  that  ever  trod,  or  placed  a barometer 
upon  the  true  summit.  About  2\  days  were  consumed  m 
climbing  the  mountain  ; and  in  the  return  we  journeyed 
day  and  night.  There  is  nothing  to  invite  tourists  to  the 
ascent.  The  intrepid  hunter,  John  Cheney,  writes  us 
respecting  this  same  castellated  pinnacle,  thus  character- 
istically : “ I know  of  no  one,  except  myself,  and  four 

others  with  me,  that  ever  ascended  Mt.  Seward,  and  this 
was  about  25  years  ago,  when  we  were  hunting  for  moose. 
We  found  a large  bull  moose  yarded,  nearly  at  the  top, 


f 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE.  21/ 

which  we  killed.”  A short  distance  below  Cold  River,  on 
the  opposite  side,  at  the  mouth  of  Moose  Creek,  and  just 
below  that,  where  Cold  Brook  empties  its  icy  waters,  trout 
are  often  secured  in  great  abundance. 

At  Raquette  Falls,  “Mother  Johnson’s  famous  pan- 
cakes ” may  be  procured,  and  “ Uncle  ” Johnson  may  be 
employed  to  transport  baggage  over  the  portage  with  his 
oxen,  for  which  he  charges  $1.50  per  load.  The  house  is 
a sort  of  blocked  log  concern,  pleasantly  overlooking  the 
river.  The  falls,  \ m distant,  are  very  pretty  and  roman- 
tic, and  are  entitled  to  all  the  notice  they  receive.  That 
word  ‘ notice  ” reminds  us  of  some  “ directions  to  the  trav- 
eler,” we  observed  penciled  on  a barked  tree  on  the  carry, 
reading  as  follows  : — 

“ NOTIS. 

VISIT  FANTOM  FALLS.” 

In  front  of  the  house,  close  to  the  river,  on  a grass- 
green  bluff,  is  an  old  favorite  camping  place.  A good 
path  leads  1 m E.  to  Dawson’s  Pond  (J  x -J),  which  is  a 
vast  spring  hole  swarming  with  small  sized  trout.  Within 
i and  | m of  that  are  three  other  little  ponds — nameless 
and  unknown  to  the  general  tourist.  They  are  not  noted 
for  trout,  but  are  frequently  sought  by  deer.  A “ blazed  ” 
line  extending  3 m westerly  from  “ Hotel  de  Johnson ,” 
terminates  at  Folingsby’s  Pond,  to  which  the  water  dis- 
tance is  12^  m. 

Leaving  Johnson’s  place,  the  scenery  continues  to 
improve  as  we  pass  along — growing  more  unique  and  vari- 
ed. The  Raquette,  with  its  sandy  points  and  symmet- 
rical headlands,  its  graceful  curves  and  majestic  reaches,  is 
truly  a most  beautiful  river.  The  arrangement  of  the 
trees  on  its  wo  idrously  wooded  banks  is  most  perfect  and 


218 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


constitutes  one  of  its  greatest  attractions.  Water  maples 
line  the  shore  and  form  (with  a sprinkling  of  other  kinds 
sufficient  to  prevent  monotony)  the  handsome  groves 
which  ornament  the  vast  natural  meadows  that  abound 
near  this  river.  Their  appearance  is  like  that  of  fruit  trees, 
and  one  fancies,  while  gliding  down  the  stream,  that  he 
can  see  the  white  farm  houses  peeping  through  the  foliage. 
Two  m below,  where  Palmer’s  Brook,  an  exquisite  stream- 
let, winding  gracefully  through  one  of  these  meadows, 
empties  its  waters  into  the  river,  fish  for  trout  and  watch 
for  deer. 

To  visit  Folingsby’s  Pond  (3  x 'f)  we  leave  the  Raquette, 
and  ascend  crooked  and  shallow  Folingsby’s  Brook  1^  m 
S.  Agassiz,  Ralph  Waldo  Emerson,  James  Russell  Low- 
ell, Judge  Hoar,  and  other  eminent  literary  gentlemen, 
who  have  frequently  camped  near  this  charming  water 
gem,  will  testify  to  its  many  attractions.  There  is  a com- 
fortable shanty  at  the  foot  of  the  pond,  and  a very  substan- 
tial one  (Dukett’s)  near  the  head.  It  is  regarded  as  excel- 
lent sporting  ground. 

The  mouth  of  Half  Way  Brook  (on  the  Raquette)  is  a 
famous  trout  resort. 

At  the  Rapids  some  caution  must  be  exercised* in  get- 
ting boats  over  them  when  the  stream  is  low,  as  the  cur- 
rent is  very  swift. 

The  Great  Oxbow  is  an  immense  curve  in  the  river. 
A canal,  60  ft.  in  length  cut  across  here,  saves  a distance 
of  2 m.  Just  below,  at  a beautiful  spot,  where  a spring  of 
the  purest  water  comes  gushing  up,  travelers  often  stop 
to  lunch. 

There  is  a little  settlement  of  three  or  four  families  liv- 
ing in  quiet  retirement  near  the  lake — (Tupper) — (Sim 
Moody,  Stetson,  McLaughlin,  and  McBride),  of  whom 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


219 


farmers’  supplies  may  be  obtained.  From  Stetson’s  to 
Raquette  Pond,  the  distance  by  path  is  1 m ; by  the  river 
it  is  5 m. 

Continuing  our  course,  at  length,  upon  rounding  a bend 
in  the  stream,  an  abrupt  transition  occurs,  and  the  first 
distinct  view  we  have  of  Big  Tupper  Lake,  seen  suddenly 
before  us,  glistening  like  a sea  of  silver  surrounded  by  a 
fringe  of  limitless  green,  is  one  of  surpassing  beauty.  A 
succession  of  romantic  islands,  some  rocky  and  barren, 
others  covered  with  the  most  luxuriant  vegetation,  adorn 
the  waters  of  this  lake,  which  once  bore  the  Indian  name 
of  “ Pas-kun-ga-meh,”  signifying  going  out  from  the  river. 
{Raquette).  Beautiful  bays  and  indentations  curve  grace- 
fully around  densely  wooded  points  and  promontories,  and 
mountains  of  moderate  elevation  slope  gradually  to  the 
shore,  and  are  reflected  in  the  liquid  mirror  at  their  feet. 
It  only  lacks  the  remote  mountain  features  so  imposingly 
gracing  the  landscape  viewed  from  Long  and  Raquette 
Lakes,  to  render  this  sheet  the  queen  of  the  Adirondack 
waters. 

As  we  enter  the  lake  from  the  outlet,  we  notice  on  the 
left  a beaver  meadow  of  large  extent,  interspersed  with 
pleasant  groves,  and  a conspicuous  object  in  the  scene  is 
Moody’s  Hotel,  its  attractive  appearance  inviting  the  trav- 
eler to  pause  for  awhile  at  the  winsome  spot.  Martin  M 
Moody,  our  genial  host,  like  his  brother  Harvey,  is  an  old- 
time  guide,  and  is  as  familiar  with  the  mazes  of  the  forest 
as  a school-boy  is  with  the  alphabet.  Parties  registering 
their  names  upon  his  books,  may  expect  the  most  courte- 
ous attention  to  all  their  wants.  The  house  is  ample  and 
Will  provide  for  a large  number. 

Bluff  Island  is  the  most  noteworthy  and  picturesque  of 
all  the  42  islands  studding  this  lake.  Its  W.  extremity  is 


220 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


a perpendicular  cliff  of  very  peculiar  shape,  rising  majes- 
tically 70  or  80  ft.  above  the  water.  This  precipitous  rock 
has  received  the  name  of  the  “ Devil’s  Pulpit,”  and  it  pre- 
sents a most  unique  appearance  as  you  approach  it  going 
eastward.  Indian  tradition  informs  us  (so  it  must  be  true) 
that  “the  bad  spirit  was  wont  to  ascend  this  rock  up  the 
great  natural  steps  on  the  N.  side,  and  from  its  summit 
preach  to  his  followers,  congregated  on  the  ice.below,  in  a 
furious  storm  ; and  after  his  sermon  was  ended,  to  slide 
down  the  smooth  face  of  the  precipice  on  the  other  side.” 
It  is  said  that  once  a deer,  pursued  by  huntsmen,  jumped 
from  the  top  of  this  “ Pulpit  ” into  the  lake  beneath,  and 
escaped  by  swimming  to  the  mainland,  only  to  be  killed 
the  following  year.  How  they  knew  it  was  the  same  deer 
is  not  explained. 

The  trout  haunts  in  this  vicinity  are  Bog  River  Falls, 
at  the  head  of  the  lake  ; Cold  Brook,  discharging  its  waters 
\ or  i m E.  of  the  falls  ; the  mouth  of  a brooklet  entering 
Rock  Island  Bay,  2 m below ; another  little  stream,  1 m 
below  that,  flowing  into  Deep  Bay — (so  narrow  is  the 
opening  connecting  this  bay  with  the  lake,  that  it 
assumes  the  form  of  a charming  lakelet) ; three  small 
brooks  emptying  opposite  the  Norway  Islands  ; Redside 
Brook,  about  1 m above  Moody’s  ; — all  on  the  E.  side  of 
the  lake  ; and  Grindstone  Brook,  the  inlet  of  Grindstone 
Bay,  2\  or  3 m from  the  foot  ; and  Bridge  Brook  entering 
the  bay  of  that  name,  i|  or  2 m above  Grindstone  Bay- 
both  on  the  W.  side. 

Tupper  Lake  has  2 outlets,  both  entering  Raquette  R. 
within  | m of  each  other.  Take  the  1 channel  to  visit 
Lough  Neak,  and  perchance  the  St.  Lawrence,  into  which 
the  Raquette  discharges  itself  after  its  majestic  passage  of 
150  m. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


221 


Gull  Pond,  lying  at  the  base  of  Gull  Pond  Mt.,  |mW. 
of  the  head  of  the  lake,  is  easily  reached  by  good  portage, 
and  affords  very  fine  fishing.  It  feeds  the  waters  of  the 
lovely  little  Uz  Pond,  which  lies  immediately  back  (W.) 
of  Grindstone  Bay.  The  entire  length  of  the  lake  and 
Whiteface  Mt.  are  visible  from  Grindstone  Bay. 

Bridge  Brook  Pond  is  accessible  by  a good  path  lead- 
ing  ^ m (W.)  from  Bridge  Brook  Bay.  Carry  from  head 
of  this  pond  ii  m.  N.  W.  to  reach  Pleasant  Lake  ; and 
from  thence  5 r.  S.  W.  to  reach  Long  Pond,  both  head- 
waters of  Dead  River.  W.  of  that  lies  Center  Pond,  a 
source  of  Grass  River. 

Access  is  gained  to  Sperry  Pond  by  carrying  from  the 
mouth  of  Cold  Brook  si  m S.  E.  ; and  to  Jenkins  Pond, 
by  boating  up  Rock  Island  Bay  Brook  as  far  as  boats  will’ 
float,  and  thence  crossing  the  good  portage,  3 m E 
Carry  from  Jenkins  Pond  \ m.  S.  E.  to  Duck  Pond  ; ii 
m.  N.  E.  to  Long  Pond  ; and  ij  m N.  to  Little  Simon’s 
Pond.  Jenkins  and  Duck  P.  command  fine  views  of 
Marcy,  McIntyre,  Seward  and  their  gigantic  neighbors. 

A good  path  leads  from  Moody’s  Hotel  to  Little  Simon’s 
Pond,  lying  near  the  foot  of  Mt.  Morris  ; distance  i|  m. 
This  pond  is  very  secluded,  and  Mr.  Moody  regards  it  as" 
the  best  fishing  locality  in  the  North  Woods  ; nor  is  there 
a scarcity  of  deer  in  the  neighborhood.  Its  outlet  con- 
nects with  Big  Simon’s  Pond,  another  deer  rendezvous. 

Mt.  Morris,  the  noblest  and  most  prominent  pinnacle 
of  this  section,  is  generally  visited  by  taking  a path  start- 
ing from  Little  Green  Bay— E.  side  of  the  lake  ; distance 
2i  m.  S.  E. 

The  W.  shore  of  the  lake  immediately  below  Cronk’s, 
is  the  ground  usually  selected  for  camping,  as  a number 
of  springs  abound  thereabout ; eligible'  locations  are 
also  furnished  by  some  of  its  numerous  islands,  includ- 


222 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


ing  Long  (its  largest — i m in  length),  Bluff,  Two  Broth- 
ers, Two  Norways,  Jenkins,  and  Mink  Islands. 

Approaching  the  head  of  Tupper  Lake,  we  are  charmed 
by  a constant  succession  of  new  and  varied  water  views. 
In  the  distance,  Bog  River  Falls  are  plainly  distinguisha- 
ble, looking  like  a ribbon  of  silver  hanging  gracefully  over 
the  face  of  a bluff.  Cronk’s  pleasant  “ Lodge  ” is  situated 
on  the  W.  shore,  within  a mile  of  the  head.  The  house 
most  charmingly  overlooks  the  water,  and  with  its  recent 
enlargement,  has  ample  accommodations  for  all  that  would 
be  likely  to  come.  Here,  the  sportsman-tourist,  if  he  has 
no  desire  to  taste  the  hardships  of  a camp  life,  can  stop  to 
good  advantage  for  a week  or  for  a summer  tarry,  and 
enjoy  most  of  the  luxuries  that  civilization  affords,  together 
with  all  the  wild-wood  dainties. 

The  route  to  Mud  Lake — notoriously  the  gloomiest  sheet 
the  Wilderness  contains,  noted  for  deer  and  mosqui- 
toes, and  once  famed  as  the  home  of  the  now  “ mythic 
moose” — starts  from  “ Graves  Lodge,”  and  the  distance  is 
about  15  m.  Boats  and  baggage  are  conveyed  from  this 
point  by  team  over  the  3 m portage  to  Horse  Shoe  Pond. 
Price,  $3.00  per  load. 

The  particulars  of  the  sad  accident  resulting  in  the 
death  of  Mr.  Graves  in  1871,  are  thus  given  by  Mr.  Milote 
Baker,  through  the  Plattsburg  Republican  : — “ Mr.  W.  W. 
Graves,  proprietor  of  ‘Graves  Lodge,’  was  at  Horse  Shoe 
Pond  with  his  son,  watching  for  deer.  A large  buck  being 
driven  in,  Mr.  Graves  attempted  to  drive  it  near  the  shore 
that  his  son  might  shoot  it.  Mr.  Graves  had  the  deer  by 
the  tail,  and  was  pounding  him  on  the  head  with  an  oar, 
when  suddenly  he  turned  and  swam  under  the  boat,  cap- 
sizing it.  The  boat  being  old  and  leaking,  he  could  not 
right  it,  but  thought  he  could  get  ashore  by  taking  hold 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


223 

of  the  dog’s  tail,  and  being  towed,  but  the  dog,  instead  of 
swimming,  would  turn  and  get  on  Mr.  G.’s  shoulders.  He 
then  tried  to  swim  ashore,  but  could  not  reach  it.  The 
water  was  very  cold,  and  he  quite  warm  from  his  tussle 
with  the  deer.  When  near  the  shore  he  told  his  little  son 
he  could  swim  no  farther,  and  bid  him  “ good  bye,”  telling 
him  to  bid  his  mother  and  little  sisters  the  same,  and  sank 
to  the  bottom.  The  water  where  he  sank  is  not  over  10 
or  12  ft.  deep,  and  very  clear.  His,  little  son  could  see  his 
face  when  he  was  sinking,  until  near  the  bottom.”  Mr. 
Graves  will  be  sadly  missed  by  the  sporting  fraternity. 

From  Horse  Shoe  Pond  the  route  leads  down  its  outlet  to 
Bog  River— flowing  from  Mud  Lake  ; thence  we  pass  up 
this  stream,  through  a series  of  ponds,  termed  the  First 
or  Lower  Chain,  and  the  Second  or  Upper  Chain.  The 
first  of  these  groups  is  made  up  of  3 little  beau- 
ties, respectively  named  North,  Middle,  and  Hitchins 
Ponds,  all  connected  by  narrow  passages.  They  vary 
from  | to  1 m in  length,  and  their  waters  are  deep,  pure 
and  cold,  and  the  scenery  around  them  is  pleasantly  diversi- 
fied. Large  natural  meadows  of  luxuriant  wild  grass,  and 
high  elevations  crowned  with  timber  of  gigantic  growth, 
form  a pleasing  variety  in  the  landscape.  On  the  W.  bank 
of  the  E.  one  (North  Pond),  at  the  head  of  a handsome 
little  bay,  is  a very  pleasant  camping  spot.  There  is  also 
a most  suitable  location  for  a camp  on  the  N.  shore  of  the 
Western  or  Hitchins  Pond.  A little  stream  entering 
this  pond  on  the  S.  side,  flows  from  Little  Trout,  Big 
Trout,  High,  &c.,  Ponds,  several  miles  farther  S.  Leav- 
ing Hitchins  Pond,  the  stream  is  so  shallow  that  boats 
must  be  “ poled  ” considerably,  and  when  the  water  is  low 
they  must  be  carried  here  from  30  to  100  r. 

The  Second  or  Upper  Chain,  about  4 m above  the  lower 


224 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


group,  is  also  composed  of  three  pretty  little  sheets,  ming- 
ling their  waters  by  short  and  sluggish  inlets.  They  are 
from  \ to  f m l,  and  their  shores  are  bold,  rocky  and 
romantic.  On  the  N.  shore  of  the  middle  one,  on  a green 
cape  that  slopes  gently  down  to  the  water,  is  a most  attract- 
ive camping  place,  an  excellent  spring  near,  rendering  the 
location  all  the  more  desirable.  For  miles  above  the  Sec- 
ond Chain,  the  savage  “ Bog,”  rapidly  narrowing  and 
extremely  sinuous,*  takes  its  course  through  a low, 
swampy  and  most  unpleasant  region.  This  part  of  the 
route  is  a fitting  introduction  to  the  dismal  scenery  about 
to  be  witnessed. 

Mud  Lake  is  about  i\  m in  length  ; its  waters  are  usu- 
ally shallow,  and  are  almost  entirely  covered  with  lily- 
pads.  These,  together  with  the  great  abundance  of  wild 
grass  that  skirts  the  shores,  form  the  most  extensive  graz- 
ing fields  for  deer  that  exists  anywhere  within  the  Wilder- 
ness. The  ground  bordering  the  lake  is  sometimes  trod- 
den up  like  the  cattle  yards  of  Brighton  Market.  From 
the  head  of  the  lake,  a vast  boggy  natural  meadow 
stretches  away  beyond  the  range  of  the  eye.  This  was 
once  the  breeding-place  of  the  moose.  At  the  mouth  of 
the  inlet,  entering  here,  trout  may  be  caught  in  .limited 
numbers,  but  not  elsewhere  in  this  lake.  The  only  suita- 
ble camping  location  hereabouts,  will  be  found  near  the 
outlet,  on  the  N.  side,  in  a little  grove  of  spruce  and  bal- 
sam trees.  A cold  spring,  almost  as  large  and  remark- 
able as  the  famous  one  yet  to  be  described,  near  the  head 
of  Tupper  Lake,  is  the  most  agreeable  feature  of  the 
place.  Around  this  lake,  each  member  of  the  insect  tribe 

* Harvey  Moody  pronounces  this  stream,  and  Folingsby’s,  and  Little 
Wolf  Brooks,  “ the  confoundedest  crookedest  consarns  in  the  woods.”— 
Vide  Street’s  ‘ Woods  and  Waters.” 


descriptive  guide. 


22$ 

holds  high  carnival  throughout  the  summer  months.* 
Mud  Lake  receives  the  waters  of  the  3 Chain  Ponds,  lying 
a short  distance  W. 

The  Silver  Lake  Chain,  lying  N.  E.,  is  reached  by  branch- 
ing to  the  N W.  from  the  Mud  Lake  route  at  the  third 
pond  of  the  Upper  Chain,  and  proceeding  to  Fourth  Pond, 
but  a short  distance  away.  On  the  N.  side  of  this  pleas- 
ant sheet  is  a good  camp — near  a never  failing  spring. 
From  Fourth  Pond  to  the  Silver  Chain,  the  route  passes 
N.  E.  through  {See  following  page  for  routes  to  the  Silver 
Chain,  Etc. ,)  Graves  and  Otter  Ponds  ; Silver  Lake,  repos- 
ing beneath  the  shadow  of  Silver  Lake  Mt.  ; and  then 
through  Triangle,  and  Panther  Ponds  ; with  about  2-J  in. 
carry  in  all.  As  these  waters  are  deeply  buried  in  the  se- 
clusion of  the  “wild  green  woods,”  and  have  hardly  been 
explored  even  by  the  trapper,  they  may  be  classed  with  the 
very  best  sporting  territory  of  the  Adirondacks. 

Route  prom  Big  Tupper  Lake  to  Mud  Lake.. 

Portage,  (W.  from  Cronk’s—sled  road),  - - 3 miles 

Horse  Shoe  Pond, \ 

“ Outlet,  (S.  W.),  ------  a 

Bog  River  to  Hitchins  Pond  (W.),  - - . _ « 

Hitchins  P.  (Length  of  North  and  Middle  P.  f m),  f “ 
Portage  (W.  around  a dam),  30  rods 

Bog  River, - - 3 miles 

(through  3 Chain  Ponds,  Upper  Group),  « 

- 3 

Total,  - _ _ 7^  “ 

Route  to  Long  Pond.— From  Bog  River,  about  ij  m. 
above  Hitchins  Pond,  carry  S.  down  a steep  hill  J m. 

s^^:czrd.of'Si7rouK’ we  ^ drawn 

14 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


iG 

Route  to  Three  Pound  and  Hornet  Ponds. 

Portage  (N.  from  Bog  R.,  about  midway  between 

rst  and  2d  Chain  Ponds,  Upper  Group),  - J miles 
Three  Pound  P.  (name  suggests  size  of  its  trout),  i “ 
Portage  (N.  E.,  along  the  outlet),  -----  “ 

First  Hornet  Pond,  - --  --  --  --  \ “ 

Outlet  (S.  E.),  - - - - - 4*  “ 

Second  Hornet  Pond,  - --  --  --  --  ^ 

Total, - - 2\  “ 

The  outlet  of  Second  Hornet  P.  (not  navigable),  enters 
Bog  R.  at  the  spawning-bed,  just  below  First  Chain  P., 
Upper  Group.  Length  of  this  outlet  \ or  J-  m.  The  Three 
Pound  and  Hornet  Ponds  are  all  famous  for  fish. 

Routes  to  the  Silver  Lake  Chain. 

(i.)  Stream  (N.  W,  from  Third  Chain  P.  U.  G.)  % miles 
Fourth  Pond,  ^ “ 

Portage  (N.  E. — ground  low  and  swampy),  - - f “ 

Graves  Pond  (Near  Graves  Mt.),  -----  f “ 

Portage  (N.  E.),  - - - - - i “ 

Otter  Pond,  (wedge-shaped), - £ “ 

Portage  (N.  E.),  - --  --  --  --  - i “ 

Silver  Lake  (Woll  Pond),  -------  “ 

Portage  N.  E. — W.  side  of  stream),  - - - - J “ 

Triangle  Pond,  - --  --  --  --  - 

Portage  (N.  E. — E.  side  of  stream,  - - - i “ 

Panther  Pond,  ^ “ 

Portage  (N.  to  Centre  Pond), -3  “ 


Total  -----------  9I  “ 

The  Silver  Lake  Chain  of  Ponds  flow  S.  W.  into  Bog 
River  via  Fourth  P.  and  the  portages  on  the  route  just 
given,  as  far  as  Panther  P.,  follow  the  unnavigable  stream 
connecting  these  waters. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


22? 


(2.)  Carry  from  W.  end  of  Second,  or  E.  end  of  Third 
Chain  Pond,  Upper  Group,  f m.  N. ; cross  Spring  Pond 
(a  vast  spring-hole,  with  no  outlet)  J m.  ; carry  m.  N. 
to  Graves  P.;  and  thence  proceed  as  per  “Route  No.  1.” 
The  route  via  Spring  P.  is  far  preferable  to  that  via 
Fourth  P.  Boats  have  been  taken  clear  through  to  Silver 
Lake.  The  route  is  not  considered  very  difficult. 

(3.)  Carry  (cut  out)  from  Middle  P.  (which  joins  Hitchin’s 
P.*)4m.  N.  to  Silver  Lake.  The  “line”  curves  around 
and  passes  over  a spur  of  Silver  Lake  Mt. 

This  was  Dr.  W.  W.  Ely’s  first  route  to  that  region, 
and  we  believe  the  Silver  Lake  and  Three  Pound  Chains 
were  first  explored  by  that  gentleman.  We  are  greatly 
indebted  to  him  for  particulars  concerning  the  Bog  River 
and  other  sections. 


It  is  generally  known  that  the  Legislature  of  the  State 
made  an  appropriation  in  1872  for  the  purpose  of  carry- 
ing out  the  measure  of  surveying  the  Adirondack  Wilder- 
ness with  a view  to  the  permanent  reservation  of  this 
region  as  a “ Grand  Public  Park.” 

This  commission  was  entrusted  to  Verplanck  Colvin, 
and  right  worthily  has  this  indefatigable  explorer— with 
his  efficient  assistants — performed  the  onerous  office. 
The  survey  has  been  in  progress  for  upwards  of  two 
years,  and  in  this  laborious  and  dangerous  enterprise, 
hardships  have  been  experienced  and  results  attained  of 
remarkable  character.  Mountain  after  mountain  has 


* Brook  trout  have  been  taken  from  this  famous  pond  weighing  jive  pounds 
Three  Pound  Pond— a mammoth  babbling  spring— is  said  to  furnish  the  best 
August  fishing  of  any  water  in  the  woods.  Mr.  Dawson,  of  Albany  recently 
captured  here  a speckled  trout  which  weighed  four  pounds:  and  last  season  one 
was  killed  by  W.  W.  Hill,  Esq  , of  the  same  city,  which  turned  the  scales  a 
quarter  higher  The  landing  of  such  a magnificent  treasure  with  a six  ounce 
rod  must  be  the  very  acme  of  sporting  enjoyment. 


228 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


been  ascended,  measured  and  occasionally  named — often 
at  the  risk  of  limb  and  even  life — hitherto  untrodden 
except  by  prowling  beasts.  More  than  200  lakes  and 
ponds — heretofore  nameless  and  also  unknown  save  to 
the  daring  trapper  or  guide — have  been  visited,  christened 
and  mapped.  Perhaps  the  larger  portion  of  these  waters 
form  the  fountain-heads  of  Grass,  Oswegatchie  and 
Beaver  Rivers.  Many  of  them  lie  partially  between 
Mud  Lake  and  the  Red  Horse  Chain.  We  cannot 
speak  definitely  respecting  the  location  or  dimensions  of 
these  newly  developed  lakes,  but  without  aiming  at  strict 
accuracy  will  make  brief  and  general  allusion  to  them, 
and  withhold  careful  details  till  later  editions  of  this 
work  are  issued. 

S.  of  2d  Lake  (Upper  Group)  a short  distance  is  Daw- 
son P. — thus  named  for  the  veteran  angler,  George 
Dawson,  of  the  Albany  Evening  Journal ’ N.  E.  of 

Graves  P.,  perhaps  2 m.,  is  L.  Colvin,  and  N.  E.  of  that 
about  the  same  distance  is  Beaver  Meadow  P.  -W.  of  L. 
Colvin — say  1^  m. — and  N.  of  Graves  P.  is  L.  Ely  ; and 
S.  W.  of  that,  perhaps  i|  or  2 m.,  are  Darn-Needle,  (p. 
52,)  Little  Gull  and  other  ponds. 

Near  Bog  R.,  about  midway  between  4th  P.  and  Mud  L., 
is  Spruce  Grouse  P. ; and  between  Mud  L.  and  Grass  P. — 
equi-distant  from  each — is  Silver-Leaf  P.  N.  of  Grass  P. 
(lying  1 m.  N.  W.  of  Mud  L. — p.  52)  1 or  2 m.  is  Fish- 
Pole  P.  N.  W.  of  Mud  L.,  in  the  vicinity  of  Cranberry 
L.,  are  Olmstead,  Simons  and  Addison  Ponds  ; and  less 
remote  in  the  same  direction  are  Glasby,  Cat  Mt.,  Cow- 
Horn,  Slender,  Barsout,  &c.,  Ponds.  Two  and  3 m.  N. 
W.  of  Mud  L.  are  Tamarack  and  Crystal  Ponds. 
Directly  W.  of  Mud  L.  2 m.  is  Lost  L. ; and  W.  of  that 
about  the  same  distance  is  Nick’s  P.  W.  of  the  latter 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


229 


several  m.  are  the  “ Five  Ponds  and  S.  W.  2 or  3 m. 
are  Gal,  West  and  Cracker  Ponds  ; and  still  farther  in 
the  same  direction  and  more  easterly  are  Toad  and  Long 
Ponds,  Oven  L.  and  Grassy  P.  E.  of  Oven  L.— -Grassy 
P.  lying  midway  between — is  Gull  L.,  which  lies  nearly 
due  S.  of  Nick’s  P.  Three  or  4 m.  E.  of  Gull  L.,  not  far 
away,  are  Duck,  Nick’s  Deer  and  Cold  Spring  Ponds  ; 
and  E.  of  thesfe  1 or  2 m.  is  Partlow  L.  Oven,  Gull  and 
Partlow  Lakes,  &c.,  lie  in  the  neighborhood  of  Crooked 
L.,  which  is  several  m.  S.  (See  p.  36.) 

Mr.  Colvin*  tells  us  in  his  very  able  “ Report  ” that 
many  of  these  lakes  and  lakelets  are  very  important  as 
well  as  beautiful ; that  nearly  all  of  them  swarm  with 
speckled  trout  of  wonderful  size  and  weight,  some  of 
them  reaching  3 or  4 pounds — true  salmo  fontinalis — 
and  that  the  marshy  portion  of  their  shores  are  stamped 
by  the  feet  of  numberless  deer,  mingled  with  the  foot- 
prints of  rarer  and  more  savage  animals. 

Resuming  the  route  from  Big  Tupper  Lake  and  turn- 
ing a point  near  Cronk’s  “ Lakeside  Retreat,”  (formerly 
“ Graves  Lodge,”)  we  do  not  fail  to  call  and  take  a 
delicious  draught  from  the  most  remarkable  spring  in  the 
entire  Wilderness.  It  is  of  unusual  dimensions,  being 
fully  six  feet  in  diameter,  and  the  water  boils  up  from  its 
bed  of  snow-white  sand,  and  is  as  sweet,  clear  and  cold 
as  ever  mortal  drank.  Like  Headley,  “ we  long  to  take 
this  spring  with  us.”  From  this  pearly  fountain  there 
flows  a tiny  brooklet,  which,  with  its  rippling  music,  laughs 
its  way  to  the  lake  near  by.  Right  here,  on  two  different 
points,  in  close  proximity  to  each  other  and  to  this  spring, 
we  may  note  two  of  the  best  camping  spots  we  have  ever 

* We  desire  to  express  our  acknowledgments  to  Mr.  Colvin  for  valuable 
favors  received  from  him. 


230 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


seen.  Half  a mile  farther  onward,  and  we  reach  the  falls, 
where  Bog  River  discharges  its  waters  in  three  cascades 
over  a shelving  ledge,  foaming  and  boiling  in  its  angry 
course,  until  it  makes  a final  leap  into  the  lake  directly 
below,  as  if  happy  in  finding  a resting  place  in  its  peace- 
ful bosom.  The  view  from  here  and  from  the  camping- 
grounds  just  mentioned,  is  among  the  most  enchanting  we 
have  ever  witnessed  from  any  spot.  Nearlv  the  entire  sur- 
face of  the  exquisite  Tupper  is  spread  out  before  us,  its 
islands,  bays  and  mountains,  lending  their  peculiar  charms 
to  the  superb  picture.  Near  this  place,  the  ancient  mili- 
tary road  that  we  crossed  at  the  foot  of  Long  Lake,  and 
which  extends  from  the  Mohawk  to  the  St.  Lawrence,  is 
still  perceptible,  though  overgrown  with  young  trees  and 
brambles.  The  Adirondack  R.  R.  will  pass  near  this 
point. 

Around  the  falls,  up  the  steep  bank,  the  boat  is  carried 
and  placed  in  the  Bog  River.  Two  miles  above  this 
portage  the  stream  divides.  Up  the  right  branch  led 
the  former  route  to  Mud  Lake.  It  included  thirteen 
carries  ; no  wonder  it  was  abandoned.  Continuing  our 
journey  we  take  the  left  or  Little  Tupper  Lake  Stream. 
Along  the  second  carrying  place,  which  terminates  at 
Round  Pond,  the  scenery  is  strikingly  bold  and  beautiful, 
full  of  wild  and  romantic  interest,  and  strongly  resembles 
that  of  Trenton  Falls  ; but  unlike  that,  perfect  solitude 
here  reigns  supreme.  After  leaving  Round  Pound  the 
stream  flows  on  awhile  with  gentle  current,  all  unconscious 
of  its  future  mad  career.  Now  it  reaches  a glen  and 
fretfully  hides  itself  in  its  rocky  bed,  soon  emerging  there- 
from a mere  brooklet,  so  small  that  one  can  easily  leap 
across  it,  but  anon  expands  into  the  proportions  of  a river. 
Then  it  dashes  down  the  face  of  a rugged  ledge  in  wrath- 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


231 


ful  surges,  and  after  flowing  in  stateliness  for  a little  dis- 
tance, madly  sweeps  over  a pavement  of  pointed  rocks. 
Huge  boulders  line  the  way,  around  which  the  maddened 
river  turns  and  twists  in  its  furious  journey  through  the 
ravine.  The  dense  forest  crowds  itself  to  the  very  edge 
of  the  precipitous  gorge.  It  is  strange  that  travelers 
so  rarely  mention  this  romantic  passage.  It  would  be 
considered  a gem  in  the  vicinity  of  the  White  Mountains, 
or  in  any  region  renowned  for  natural  beauty. 

Cleaving  through  the  bright  waters  of  Round  Pond,  a 
sheet  of  rare  beauty,  and  almost  as  circular  as  if  traced  with  a 
compass,  we  enter  its  broad  and  sluggish  inlet,  mantled  with 
lily-pads, affordinganimmensefeeding-groundfordeer.  The 
stately  yellow  pond-lily  raises  its  golden  head  above  the 
water,  and  the  more  exquisite  white  one,  loveliest  of  forest 
flowers,  with  its  glistening  leaves  of  crimson  and  green, 
lifts  itself  just  high  enough  to  silver  the  surface  while  the 
day  lasts,  and  then  closes  its  pearly  scollops  for  the  night. 
This  stream  courses  its  way  through  a gloomy  swamp. 
But  though  the  many  beautiful  things  placed  here  fail  to 
render  it  a “ Garden  of  Eden,”  yet  they  array  it  in  rarest 
colors  which  go  far  to  soften  and  relieve  its  dreariness. 
The  scarlet  Indian  Plume  ; the  wild  Rose,  ever  a favorite  ; 
the  red  berried  Solomon’s  Seal  ; the  crimson  Mohawk 
Tassel  ; the  Moosehead,  in  its  royal  purple,  charm  the  eye 
of  the  traveler  when  passing  through  these  inlets  which 
would  otherwise  be  the  most  dismal  thoroughfares  imag- 
inable. The  pretty  tamarack  here  predominates,  lining 
the  entire  passage  of  a mile,  at  the  end  of  which  Little 
Tupper  lies  before  us,  presenting  with  its  surroundings  a 
landscape  of  great  and  attractive  variety.  We  continue 
our  course  up  the  lake,  pausing  midway  to  feast  our  eyes 
upon  the  most  impressive  view  of  all  its  scenery,  here 


232 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


unfolded  to  us.  Looking  to  the  N.  E.  we  behold  the  giant 
forms  of  the  Adirondack  Range,  dim  shadows  in  the  dis- 
tance, rearing  their  heads  to  the  clouds  and  frowning  in 
eternal  barrenness  upon  all  objects  lying  beneath  and 
around  them.  The  bold,  rocky  shores  of  the  lake  resem- 
ble ancient  fortifications,  or  the  battlements  of  ruined  cas- 
tles, and  islands  and  bays  of  different  shapes,  give  com- 
pleteness to  the  scene.  Little  Tupper  Lake,  or  Lake 
Clute,  has  a length  of  about  6 m.  As  it  is  more  secluded 
and  less  frequented  than  Big  Tupper,  it  is  better  adapted 
to  hunting  purposes.  Its  most  noted  trout  resort  is  at 
the  mouth  of  Bog  Stream,  which  flows  from  Sperry  and 
Handsome  Ponds — entering  the  lake  near  the  outlet  Its 
most  desirable  camping-location  is  at  Sand  Point — N.  W. 
side — about  a mile  from  the  outlet. 

With  Little  Tupper  Lake  terminates  our  tour  of  the 
Adirondack  Region.  Those  who  are  not  already  advo- 
cates of  the  proposed  measure  for  converting  this  region 
of  picturesque  and  delightful  scenery  into  a grand,  per- 
manent State  Park,  we  opine  will  become  such  after 
enjoying  a few  weeks  of  camp-life  within  the  charmed  circle 
of  its  sublime,  ennobling  and  refreshing  influences.  The 
reader  may  become  better  acquainted  with  the  subject  by 
a careful  examination  of  the  weighty  arguments  that  fol- 
low, from  the  pen  of  P.  H.  Agan,  Esq.,*  in  a letter  to  a 
friend,  which  we  are  permitted  to  copy  : — 


* By  an  act  of  the  Legislature,  a commission  composed  of  ex-Governor 
Seymour,  State  Engineer  William  B.  Taylor,  Patrick  H.  Agan,  George 
Raynor,  Wi  liam  A.  Wheeler,  Verplanck  Colvin  and  Franklin  B.  Hough,  has 
been  appointed  to  examine  the  subject  of  preserving  the  Adirondacks  as  a 
State  Park,  with  instructions  to  report  on  its  feasibility  ac  the  next  session 
of  that  body. 


descriptive  guide. 


233 


Syracuse,  April  29,  1872. 

My  Dear  Sir  — 

In  response  to  your  request  that  I would  give  you  my 
views  relative  to  the  proposed  State  Park,  I send  you  such  reflections  as 
have  among  others  occurred  to  me,  without,  however,  claiming  for  them 
any  special  interest  or  value. 

To  us  who  have  been  accustomed  for  years  to  making  annual  sum- 
mer trips  to  the  great  New  York  Wilderness,  the  recent  discussions  con- 
cerning the  propriety  of  creating  a State  Park  out  of  that  magnificent 
region,  are  fraught  with  much  interest.  It  is  a scheme  upon  which  for  a 
considerable  time  we  have  bestowed  more  or  less  reflection,  and  the 
renewal  of  these  discussions  at  this  juncture,  and  the  earnestness  with 
which  the  proposition  is  advocated  in  high  quarters,  encourages  us  to  hope 
for  success  at  no  distant  period. 


\ ou  and  I are  undoubtedly  more  sensitive  to  the  agitation  of  this  sub- 
ject than  those  who  are  unacquainted  with  the  characteristics  of  the  terri- 
tory which  is  proposed  to  be  embraced  within  the  contemplated  Park, 
and  feel  a stronger  desire  than  they  to  perpetuate  the  existence  of  its  woods 
and  waters.  Our  intimacy  with  that  region,  begun  long  ago,  has  created  in 
us  a feeling  of  attachment  for  it  which  cannot  exist  among  those  whose  sole 
knowledge  of  its  charms  has  been  obtained  at  second  hand.  Other  citi- 
zens of  the  State,  but  strangers  to  its  delights,  may  feel  proud  of  its  pos- 
session as  a part  of  the  inheritance  of  their  own  unrivaled  commonwealth  ; 
but  we  who  have  so  frequently  reveled  in  the  enjoyment  of  its  wild  and 
rugged  scenery,  and  drawn  strength  and  inspiration  from  its  fresh  and  brac- 
ing atmosphere,  not  only  have  a pride  in  its  existence,  but  a sense  of  affec- 
tion for  it  that  cannot  be  eradicated,  and  that  renders  it  impossible  to  regard 
with  unconcern  any  measure  which  has  in  view  its  preservation 

This  question  of  a State  Park  can  no  longer  be  treated  with  ridicule  or 
indifference.  Considerations  of  such  magnitude  are  involved  in  it  that  no 
good  citizen  is  justified  m ignoring  the  matter.  The  scheme  rests  upon  a 
solid  basis  of  public  necessity  which  may  not  indeed  be  apparent  at  this 
time,  but  which  will,  ere  long,  be  universally  acknowledged  to  exist. 

The  only  objection  of  any  weight  whatever,  that  has  been  interposed  to 
the  enterprise,  is  its  alleged  expense;  but  do  they  who  urge  this  objection 
estimate  the  loss  which  the  annihilation  of  this  Wilderness  would  inevitably 
entai  uponthemselve5?  Can  they  truly  calculate  the  damage  that  would 
result  to  the  surrounding  country  and  to  the  State,  from  the  destruction  of 
he  timber  which  covers  the  tract  and  serves  as  a protection  to  the  streams 

ber  ess  fo  n?  ? draW  °f  the  f-est  *nd  »um- 

cete  o Z § WatCrSthatnowbubble  UP  everywhere  would 


234 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


We  hear  men  talk  of  the  value  of  this  timber  as  a merchantable  article 
and  of  course  it  has  a value  of  that  kind ; but  as  a protection  to  the  innu- 
merable water -courses  of  the  Wilderness,  its  value  is  a thousand  fold  greater 
than  it  would  be  wrought  into  any  article  of  commercial  exchange.  We 
should  cease  to  depend  henceforth  for  supplies  of  lumber^from  this  region. 
Abundant  qi'  antities  of  the  article,  and  of  better  quality,  can  be  obtained 
elsewhere.  The  near  forests  of  the  Canadian  Dominion  are  accessible  and 
still  very  prolific  in  their  yield  of  pine  as  well  as  the  coarser  varieties  of  lum- 
ber. Immense  forests  still  remain  untouched  in  the  Northwest,  while  there 
yet  exist  extensive  timber  tracts  in  the  Southern  States.  For  the  present, 
and  until  the  business  of  growing  timber  for  market  is  entered  upon  in  this 
country,  we  must  draw  the  great  bulk  of  our  lumber  from  these  sources. 
Of  the  hundreds  of  millions  of  feet  of  lumber  annually  consumed  in  the 
United  States,  it  would  be  safe,  I think,  to  say  that  hardly  two  per  cent,  is 
obtained  from  our  Northern  Wilderness. 

A dozen  or  more  rivers  of  greater  or  less  magnitude,  have  their  fountain- 
heads upon  this  great  plateau.  The  Ausable,  the  Saranac,  the  St.  Regis, 
the  Deer,  the  Beaver,  the  Moose,  the  Black,  and  lastly,  the  Hudson,  with 
its  wealth  of  scenic  grandeur,  all  pour  their  waters  down  its  rugged  slopes. 
The  Mohawk,  too,  draws  largely  from  his  source.  N or  should  we  forget  that 
gem  of  American  cascades,  Trenton  Falls,  which  is  situated  upon  one  of  the 
many  lesser  streams  of  the  Wilderness  which  roll  their  waters  toward  the 
waiting  sea.  Imagine,  my  dear  sir,  your  own  sensations  on  going  out  upon 
a delightful  August  morning  to  take  a peep  at  this  favorite  waterfall,  and 
finding  only  the  empty  channel  through  which  the  amber  stream  once 
threaded  its  rapid  course  ! Such  will  be  its  ' fate  if  we  permit  the  removal 
of  the  forest  in  which  its  sources  lie  nestled,  and  which  gives  them  nourish- 
ment and  life.  We  do  not  need  to  convert  this  forest  into  any  article  of 
traffic,  but  we  do  need  it  for  the  necessary  supply  of  our  canals,  for  the 
maintenance  of  the  immense  hydraulic  power  it  sustains,  for  the  healthful 
sanitary  influences  it  exerts  upon  the  adjacent  regions,  and  for  the  pleasure 
it  imparts  to  all  who  love  the  companionship  of  the  woods. 

The  entire  region  is  unsuited  to  cultivation.  That  the  soil  is  unproduc- 
tive and  practically  valueless,  has  been  demonstrated  by  repeated  experi- 
ments. Thorough  examinations  have  disclosed  its  poverty  and  weakness. 
We  are  assured  by  the  old  settlers  that  once  the  deer  and  moose  shunned  it 
entirely — preferring  a home  in  the  milder  and  more  productive  valleys 
below;  and  that  these  wary  animals  sought  it  finally  not  from  choice 
but  for  that  security  to  life  which  was  impossible  in  close  contact  with  the 
advancing  settlements.  Nor  did  the  red  man  ever  permanently  occupy  this 
inhospitable  region.  Although  hovering  near  it  on  every  side,  he  chose  to 
paddle  his  canoe  in  less  turbulent  waters,  and  build  his  camp-fire  in  more 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


23  5 


sunny  retreats.  Had  this  region  been  capable  originally  of  development 
into  productive  farms,  its  subsequent  history  would  have  been  far  different 
from  what  has  transpired.  Population  would  have  flowed  into  it  as  it  has 
flowed  into  other  portions  of  our  great  State ; and  instead  of  remaining  a 
hiding  place  for  beasts  of  prey,  it  would  have  swarmed  with  intelligent  and 
thrifty  communities.  Now  it  contains  only  here  and  there  an  inhabitant,  and 
the  population,  instead  of  increasing,  is  falling  away.  ( n traversing  the 
Wilderness  the  remains  of  scores  of  deserted  hamlets,  and  even  considera- 
ble settlements,  will  be  crossed — melancholy  memorials  of  wasted  means 
and  energies.  What  remain  of  the  inhabitants  eke  out  a precarious  sub- 
sistence by  hunting  and  trapping  in  the  winter  season,  and  performing  the 
labor  of  guides  during  the  summer  months. 

A few  statistics  relative  to  the  population  and  productive  resources  of 
this  territory,  may  be  excusable. 

First,  let  us  take  the  county  of  Hamilton,  which  lies  in  the  heart  of  the 
timbered  region.  Its  area  is  about  800,000  acres,  with  a population  of 
about  2,500.  According  to  the  census  of  i860,  its  total  product  of  winter 
grains  was  273  bushels,  and  of  spring  grains,  3,000  bushels.  The  propor- 
tion of  improved  land  to  unimproved,  was  as  one  to  fifty.  Assessment  of 
personal  property,  $3,378. 

The  township  of  Wilmurt,  Herkimer  county,  the  largest  in  the  State, 
lying  in  the  southwesterly  corner,  contains  705  acres  of  improved  land  and 
371,860  of  unimproved,  or  one  to  five  hundred.  In  i860  this  township 
produced  fifty  bushels,  all  told,  of  winter  grains,  and  2,349  of  spring  grains. 
Population,  269. 

The  townships  of  Colton,  Pierrepont  and  Fine,  in  St.  Lawrence  county, 
which  extend  many  miles  southerly  into  the  Wilderness,  contain  together 
16,000  acres  of  improved  land  against  335,000  of  unimproved. 

The  three  northeastern  counties  of  the  State,  Essex,  Clinton  and  Frank- 
lin, considerable  portions  of  which  are  mountainous  and  sterile,  contain  two 
and  a half  million  acres,  of  which  less  than  one-fifth  has  ever  been  under 
cultivation. 

These  few  statistics  serve  to  exhibit  in  a clear  light  the  real  nature  of  the 
country.  All  writers  agree  in  describing  the  soil  as  “ thin  and  sandy.”  It 
is  generally  covered  with  a vegetable  mould,  which,  once  removed,  leaves 
slight  productive  power  remaining.  Upon  such  soil  first  crops  are  always 
the  most  abundant.  The  potato  is  the  only  vegetable  that  matures  passa- 
bly well,  and  this  esculent  is  always  found  to  be  of  good  quality.  Some  of 
the  garden  vegetables  may  also  be  raised  in  well  sheltered  localities ; but 
the  quality  of  these  is  poor.  No  kind  of  grain  does  well,  and  grass  is  uni- 
versally light,  yielding  not  more  than  half  a ton  to  the  acre.  On  the 


36 


DESCRIPTIVE  GDxDE, 


“ Beaver  Meadows  ” a species  of  wild  grass  is  found  which  is  fed  to  stock, 
and  on  the  regular  supply  of  which  many  of  the  inhabitants  rely  for  the  sus- 
tenance of  their  famishing  herds  during  the  long,  inclement  winters  when 
the  whple  region  is  buried  in  snow. 

Careful  estimates  place  the  total  area  of  unimproved  land  in  the  Wilder- 
ness, and  capable  of  being  detached  in  a compact  body  from  the  coutigu- 
ous  territory,  and  preserved  mostly  in  its  natural  state,  at  six  thousand  five 
hundred  square  miles,  or  four  million  acres.  Upon  this  vast  tract  there  is 
n-ot  to-day  a resident  population  of  over  four  thousand  souls,  or  less  than 
one  to  a square  mile. 

It  is  not  perhaps  strictly  pertinent  here  to  suggest  any  plan  or  plans  of 
this  undertaking,  for  nothing  is  contemplated  now  except  a preliminary 
inquiry  into  the  subject,  and  with  a view  only  to  future  action,  in  case  any 
action  shall  be  thought  advisable.  But  it  may  not  be  improper  to  remark 
that  the  idea  is  entertained  of  including  in  the  contemplated  reservation  all 
that  part  of  the  Wilderness  in  which  the  streams  above  enumerated  have 
their  origin.  This  is  the  least  populous,  the  least  productive,  and  at  the 
same  time  the  most  picturesque  and  inaccessible  portion.  Here  the  lum- 
berman, who  for  so  many  years  has  been  making  havoc  of  the  forest,  is  yet 
measurably  short  of  completing  the  work  of  destruction.  The  portion  to 
which  reference  is  made  would  include  the  Saranac  Lakes  on  the  east,  and 
the  Fulton  Chain  on  the  west,  with  an  average  breadth  of  fifty  to  sixty 
miles.  These  boundaries  would  embrace  an  area  larger  than  the  State  of 
Connecticut,  and  equal  in  size  to  the  two  States  of  Rhode  Island  and  Del- 
aware— with  a combination  of  natural  scenery — of  lake,  river,  tree  and 
mountain — such  as  no  other  State  in  the  Union  could  boast  of  possessing, 
and  which,  converted  into  a public  park,  would,  in  proportions  and  variety, 
put  to  shame  the  famous  “Yellowstone  Park,”  which  Congress  has  just 
created. 

A word  or  two  upon  the  question  of  expense  may  not  be  amiss.  Parks  laid 
out  and  constructed  for  the  use  and  pleasure  of  metropolitan  towns  involve 
necessarily  heavy  pecuniary  outlays.  Everything  about  them  must  be  man- 
ufactured. They  are  exclusively  artificial.  Even  the  grounds  on  which 
they  are  built  require  more  or  less  improvemeut  in  adjusting  the  various 
parts  and  proportions  to  each  other.  But  here  nothing  of  this  would 
be  essential.  The  work  is  already  executed — complete  in  every  part. 
Nothing  further  is  wanted  except  snch  legislation  as  will  effectually  secure 
this  Wilderness  from  the  hands  of  the  spoiler.  Draw  your  boundary  lines 
and  plant  your  monuments,  and  leave  Nature  to  do  the  rest. 

This  scheme  of  a State  Park,  as  you  well  know,  is  nothing  new  under  the 
sun.  It  was  suggested  several  years  ago,  and  since  that  time  has  been  fre 
quently  mentioned  in  terms  of  approval.  Many  of  our  leading  journals 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


237 

have  endorsed  it.  Some  of  the  most  eminent  men  of  our  State  give  it 
their  unqualified  sanction.  It  has  the  best  wish''s  of  every  intelligent  person 
who  has  given  the  subject  any  serious  consideration. 

Although  the  measure  is  pressing  itself  upon  the  public  attention,  and 
cannot,  with  due  regard  to  the  public  welfere,  be  longer  deferred,  no  hasty 
or  inconsiderate  action  is  urged  by  those  who  favor  the  project.  They  ask 
for  a thorough  investigation  in  advance  of  any  legislative  interference  with 
the  matter.  They  desire  to  know,  first,  whether  the  scheme  is  practicable ; 
and,  second,  if  so,  whether  it  should  be  adopted,  and  upon  what  plan. 
They  ask  preliminarily  for  the  creation  of  a commission  of  competent  per- 
sons to  report  upon  the  subject,  that  the  Legislature  may  have  the  whole 
case  before  it  when  it  shall  again  assemble  in  annual  session.  Although  the 
hand  of  destruction  is  constantly  busy  in  all  portions  of  the  Wilderness,  we 
have  no  power  to  stay  its  wicked  work,  but  must  wait  patiently  for  the  inter- 
position of  law,  which  the  friends  of  the  measure  flatter  themselves  will 
not  be  asked  for  in  vain,  nor  be  much  longer  withheld. 

Very  truly,  yours, 

P.  H.  Agan. 


APPENDIX. 


OUTFIT.* 

Upon  this  subject  but  few  suggestions  need  be  made, 
as  taste,  means  and  other  circumstances,  will  naturally  be 
consulted  in  the  matter.  Care  should  be  taken  to  have 
the  outfit  light  and  simple.  Don't  take  too  much,  and  be 
sure  to  leave  the  fancy  articles  at  home.  The  comfort  of 
the  tourist,  and  especially  that  of  the  guide,  will  be  most 
readily  promoted  by  adhering  strictly  to  this  rule.  We 
will  name  what  we  consider  the  essentials  : — 

Pair  of  heavy  flannel  shirts. 

Stout  woolen  pantaloons,  coat  and  vest. 

Pair  of  overalls,  for  night  use. 

Soft  felt  hat,  light  color. 

Two  pairs  of  woolen  stockings. 

Pair  of  heavy  calf  skin  or  French  kip  skin  boots  with 
thick  soles  and  broad  heels,  about  one  size  larger  than  you 
usually  wear.  Balmoral  shoes,  high  cut,  are  better  perhaps, 
as  they  support  the  ankles  and  serve  to  prevent  their  being 
sprained. 

Pair  of  stout  camp  (carpet)  slippers. 

Rubber  blanket  or  coat — indispensable.! 

*We  are  indebted  in  this  connection  to  some  of  the  valuable  suggestions 
given  in  “ Murray’s  Adventures  in  the  Adirondacks.” 

fSailors’  yellow  oil-cloth  suits  are  sometimes  used.  They  are  water* 
proof  but  not  particularly  becoming. 


appendix. 


239 

Heavy  woolen  shawl  or  a pair  of  Indian  blankets.  A 
bag  is  a useful  substitute  for  blankets.  It  should  be  made 
of  Canton  flannel,  or  what  is  preferable,  woolen  cloth,  as 
it  will  be  less  likely  to  ignite  when  exposed  to  fire.  It 
should  be  about  6 ft.  long  and  2j  or  3 ft.  wide.  We  have 
seen  ordinary  grain  bags  used  for  that  purpose ; but  they 
afford  too  contracted  a space.  Such  a bag  can  be  con- 
verted  into  a knapsack. 

A pair  of  light  buckskin  gauntlets,  sufficiently  long  to 
button  around  the  elbows.  A pair  of  mitts  made  of  long 
cotton  stocking  legs  will  answer  as  a substitute. 

Hunting  knife  and  belt. 

Pint  tin  cup. 

Colored  silk  handkerchief. 

Head-net  — a protector  from  insects.  This  should 
be  manufactured  out  of  lawn  or  Swiss  muslin  and  fine 
steel  hoops,  such  as  are  put  in  hoop  skirts.-  It  should 
be  provided  with  an  elastic  band  with  which  to  gather 
it  around  the  neck.  This  article  will  be  found  very 
useful,  especially  when  sleeping.  Have  it  suspended  from 
the  “roof”  of  the  tent,  or  shanty,  with  a string  and  fish 
hook  or  bent  pin,  at  a proper  height  to  enable  you  to  insert 
your  head. 


A piece  of  Swiss  mull,  3 or  4 yards  square,  will  be  found 
of  great  service,  using  it  as  a sort  of  “coverlid  ” or  placing 
it  snugly  over  the  doorway,  having  previously  expelled  the 
insects  from  the  lodge  by  a thorough  smudge. 

Towels,  soap,  pins,  needles,  thread,  writing  paper,  envel- 
opes, postage  stamps,  pencils,  etc.,  in  limited  quantities. 

Hospital  stores,  including  bandages,  lint,*  ointment, 


of  wStfling  fr°?  a WOUnd  °n  man  °r  beast  may  be  stopped  by  a mixture 
the  hWH-  H common  salt,  in  equal  parts,  bound  on  with  a cloth.  If 

It  mav  P;  f’  USe  3 large  quantity>  say  from  one  to  three  pints. 

It  may  be  left  on  for  hours,  or  even  days,  if  necessary.  F 


240 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


camphor,  aqua-ammonia,  soda,  cholera  drops,  rhubarb, 
insect  preparations,  &c.,  to  use  in  case  of  emergency. 

All'  the  articles  enumerated,  with  the  exception  of  the 
blankets  (which  may  be  strapped  outside',  can  be  packed 
in  a common  enameled  double  satchel.  A knapsack  is 
more  desirable  and  should  be  used  when  it  can  be  pro- 
cured. 

The  following  may  be  classed  as  the  useful  non-essen- 
tials : 

A few  medium  sized  nails. 

A little  mixed  white  paint  and  a few  copper  nails,  with 
which  to  repair  boats  in  case  of  accident. 

Stout  twine  or  cord. 

Compass, 

Oil  cloth  cover  for  hat. 

Leather  straps. 

Rubber  leggins  or  high  boot-tops  with  straps. 

Rubber  pillow  case,  which  may  be  inflated ; or  one 
made  of  canvas,  which  may  be  filled  with  leaves  of  balsam, 
spruce,  pine,  &c.,  making  a most  healthful  head-rest. 

A camp  bed,  which  is  made  by  sewing  firmly  together 
two  strips  of  canvas  sacking,  about  6^  feet  long  and  2f  or 
3 feet  wide,  forming  a bag  with  both  ends  open.  Cut  two 
poles,  each  7 feet  long  and  about  2 inches  in  diameter,  and 
run  them  through  the  bag,  resting  the  ends  in  notches  on 
two  parallel  logs.  Then  fill  the  bag  with  leaves,  browse, 
&c. — [Trappers'  Guide. 

SPORTING  OUTFIT. 

One  rifle  or  shot-gun — breech-loaders  if  convenient 
For  general  use,  a shot-gun  is  preferable. 

Supply  of  necessary  ammunition. 


REMINGTON’S  ARMORY. 
Ilion,  N.  Y- 


I 


! 


APt’ENDljC. 


^41 

Among  breech-loading  rifles,  single  or  double-barreled, 
Remingtons’,  Sharp’s,  Maynard’s, Winchester  Repeating,* 
Lefever’s,  Peabody  and  Frank  Wesson’s  “Combination” 
cannot  be  too  highly  recommended.  They  are  all  won- 
derful pieces  of  mechanism. 

Remingtons’,  Tolley’s,  Lefever’s  and  Maynard’s  may 
be  regarded  as  the  ne  plus  ultra  among  breech-loading 
shot-guns. 

The  combined  breech-loading  rifles  and  shot-guns 
manufactured  by  Lefever,  Maynard  and  Remingtons  are 
unsurpassed  in  finish,  power  and  reliability. 

Frank  Wesson’s  “ Rifle  Pistol,”  or  “ Pocket  Rifle,”  is 
an  admirable  novelty — being  cheap,  light  and  effective. 

Smith  & Wesson’s  Revolvers  are  celebrated  for  their 
extraordinary  merits  the  world  over.  (See  Addenda.) 

One  gun  ought  to  be  sufficient  for  a party  of  two  or 
three. 

One  fly-rod,  single-handed,  three-jointed.  We  recom- 
mend a light  one — say  seven  to  ten  ounce.  The  “ split 
bamboo,”  manufactured  by  Andrew  Clerk,  of  New  York, 
(Abbey  & Imbrie,f)  seems  to  possess  all  the  requisites  of 

*This  superb  weapon  carries  eighteen  charges,  which  can  be  fired  in  nine 
seconds. 

■j-Abbey  & Imbrie,  successors  to  Andrew  Clerk  & Co.,  48  Maiden  Lane, 
N.  Y.,  have  constantly  on  hand  a large  and  fine  assortment  of  this  celebrated 
Split  Bamboo  and  other  Trout  Rods,  as  well  as  every  variety  of  flies. 

Barton,  Alexander  & Waller,  101  and  103  Duane  St.,  New  York,  alsj  make 
a specialty  of  split  bamboo  fly-rods  of  unsurpassed  quality $ and  keep  in  constant 
stock  a general  assortment  of  sportsman’s  goods  in  fullest  details,  many  of 
which  are  of  their  own  manufacture  and  importation. 

J.  B.  Crook  & Co.,  50  Fulton  St.,  New  York,  are  manufacturers  of  the 
noted  “ Castle  Connell  Rod,”  and  dealers  in  all  kinds  of  fishing  tackle. 

Prichard  Bros.,  94  Fulton  St.,  New  York,  deal  in  imported  green  heart 
salmon  and  trout  rods  of  the  very  best  class,  and  manufacture,  with  skillful 
workmen,  every  style  of  tackle  belonging  to  the  trade. 

J.  & W.  Tolley,  29  Maiden  Lane,  New  York,  deal  exclusively  in  the  popular 
« Tolley  Breech-Loading  Guns.  ” (See  next  page.) 

IS 


242 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


a perfect  rod.  The  accomplished  sportsman-editor  of  the 
Forest  and  Stream — that  beau  ideal  among  newspapers 
of  those  who  love  the  waters  and  the  woods — and  author 
of  the  elegant  volume,  “ The  Fishing  Tourist,”  Charles 
Hallock,  regards  this  in  material  and  manufacture  the 
sine  qua  non  among  fly  rods. 

The  enthusiastic  angler,  Rev.  W.  C.  Prime,  in  his 
fascinating  work — “ I Go  A-Fishing  ” — has  nothing  but 
unqualified  praise  to  bestow  upon  the  Norris  rod.  This 
instrument  has  certainly  attained  great  reputation. 

The  Orvis  rod  is  also  deservedly  highly  esteemed,  and 
is  as  perfect  an  article  as  the  fisher  could  desire  to  use. 

Some  of  the  best  authorities  in  the  land  pronounce  the 
Fowler  “bamboo”  the  “coming  rod”  already  here,  and 
superior  to  any  kind  made.  Any  rod  that  will  cast  from 
75  to  94  feet  of  line,  as  most  of  the  above  have  done,  is 
well  worthy  of  notice  and  acceptation. 

The  Orvis  metallic,  and  the  Fowler  rubber  reels  are 
greatly  preferable  to  the  old  patterns,  and  are  being 
generally  adopted. 

For  flies  take  J or  % doz.  each  from  the  following  list 
classified  according  to  their  importance : — 


INDISPENSABLE. 

1.  Scarlet  Ibis, 

2.  Abbey, 

3.  Cow  Dung, 

4.  Grizzly  King, 

5.  Coachman, 


VERY  GOOD. 

6.  Green  Drake,  11.  White  Hackle, 

7.  Professor,  12.  Red  “ 

8.  Montreal  or  Canada,  13.  Grey  “ 

9.  White  Miller,  14.  Brown  “ 

10.  March  Brown,  15.  Orange  Dun. 


M.  W.  Robinson,  79  Chambers  St.,  New  York,  is  sole  agent  for  the  Frank 
Wesson  and  Smith  & Wesson  arms,  also  the  Dexter  shot  guns. 

Nor  should  we  fail  to  introduce  to  notice  the  leading  firm  in  Boston — Wm. 
Read  & Sons,  13  Faneuil  Hall  Square — where  guns  and  tackle,  (with  their 
concomitants,)  the  productions  of  almost  every  manufacturer  in  the  world,  may 
be  procured  on  application,  (See  previous  page.) 

Whatever  is  needful  in  the  line  of  fishing  and  hunting  materials,  in  all  theh: 
various  branches,  may  be  procured  of  these  enterprising  and  reliable  houses.  (See 
Addenda. ) 


APPENDIX. 


M$ 

The  “ Mullaly  ” fly,  in  which  the  bend  and  barb  of 
the  hook  are  concealed  beneath  the  wings,  forming  a 
most  effective  lure,  is  in  high  repute. 

A very  superior  device  for  entrapping  the  wary  trout 
and  other  fish  is  Mann’s  Trolling  Spoon,  which  we  illus- 
trate herewith. 


P£R[f9L  mm^/t£VOjyi^G 


This  popular  article  has  been  extensively  used  for  six 
0)r  seven  years  by  most  of  the  best  sportsmen  of  the 
United  States  and  Canadas,  and  has  proved  to  be  the 
most  successful  trolling  bait  employed  for  taking  trout, 
salmon,  masq’allonge,  pike,  bass,  perch,  pickerel,  or  any 
fish  that  will  take  an  artificial  bait.  The  plated  metal 
and  double  hooks  used  for  these  spoons  are  made  expressly 
to  order  and  of  the  finest  quality.  If  not  found  on  sale  at 
the  fishing  tackle  stores  they  may  be  obtained  by 
addressing  the  manufacturer — “John  H.  Mann,  Syracuse, 
N.  Y.”  Price  one  dollar  each,  sent  post  paid.* 

* This  extensive  Tea  House  also  deals  in  every  variety  of  guns,  ammunition 
and  fishing  tackle,  selected  by  a genuine  sportsman,  experienced  in  every  branch 
of  the  trade.  Gunpowder  and  tea  naturally  go  together,  of  course,  (?)  as  tea  is 
frequently  gunpowder— i.  e.  gunpowder  tea.  It  may  be  truthfully  said  that 
“ here  is  the  Mann  who  can  fit  you  out  to  a T.” 

Reuben  Wood,  (a  veteran  angler,  master  of  every  department  of  the  “gentle 
art,”  one  who  has  held  annual  revels  with  the  “rod  and  reel”  for  half  a 
century,  and  who  would  rather  seek  a spring-hole  at  4 o’clock  in  the  morning 
than  make  a trip  to  Europe,)  will  also  supply  his  brother  anglers  with  all  the 
minutiae  of  lines,  flies,  rods  and  other  tackle 

At  Barnum’s  “ Sportsmen’s  Emporium  ” everything  needed  in  the  way  of 
rod  and  gun  and  the  attendant  equipments  will  be  furnished  by  one  who  is 
thoroughly  skilled  by  many  years  of  practice  in  the  use  of  rifle  and  reel.  He 
deals  exclusively  in  these  goods. 

At  Hall’s  Rubber  Store  a complete  outfit  for  a sporting,  camping  or  traveling 
campaign— comprising  rubber  caps,  capes,  coats,  pants,  leggins,  boots,  blankets 
ponchos,  pillows,  drinking  cups,  &c.,  &c.,  may  always  be  obtained.  (See  next  p.) 


2 44 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Fish  hooks  should  run  from  No.  i to  3,  Limerick  size. 

For  bait  fishing  at  the  buoys,* *  take  with  you  about  two 
dozen  good-sized,  short-shanked  hooks,  with  cream  colored 
snells  firmly  attached  to  them. 

Landing  net. 

Five  or  six  braided  silk  water-proof  lines,  assorted  sizes. 

One  trolling  line. 

Barber  & Co.  are  sole  manufacturers  of  the  Lefever  guns.  They  have  con- 
stantly on  hand,  too,  a very  complete  assortment  of  the  best  shooting  and  angling 
materials.  (See  previous  page.) 

To  all  these  excellent  houses  of  Syracuse,  N.  Y.,  we  commend  such  of  our 
readers  as  are  preparing  for  a journey  from  this  locality.  (See  Addenda.) 

*A  buoy  is  simply  a small  log  anchored  in  water  from  40  to  100  feet  in 
depth,  by  means  of  a stone  and  rope  or  cable  formed  of  strips  of  bark  tied 
together.  Around  this  floating  log,  chubs,  shiners,  &.C.,  cut  into  small  pieces, 
are  thrown  for  a day  or  two,  producing  a sort  of  rendezvous  or  feeding  ground 
for  trout  or  other  fish.  Afterwards — say  iz  or  24  hours — the  fisherman  repairs 
to  the  spot  and  with  a long  line  and  a large  hook  baited  with  a minnow,  gener- 
ally succeeds  in  capturing  a satisfactory  quantity  of  the  portly  fellows  that  have 
been  feasting  on  the  food  he  has  furnished  them. 


7 


APPENDIX. 


245 


ladies’  outfit. 

Short  walking  dress  or  Turkish  costume,  closely  fitting 
at  the  ankle. 

Flannel  under  clothing. 

Light,  soft  fur  hat — gentleman’s. 

Leather  balmoral  boots — roomy. 

Rubbers  and  thick  camp  slippers. 

Rubber  coat  and  cap  or  a waterproof. 

Head-net — same  as  gentleman’s.  Its  simplest  form  is 
that  of  a Swiss  muslin  bag,  which  may  be  placed  over  the 
head  and  then  gathered  around  the  neck  with  an  elastic 
band. 

Common  cotton  or  kid  gloves. 

Buckskin  gauntlets — of  which  the  armlets  made  of  hrm 
cotton  cloth,  or  sheep,  or  chamois-skin — should  be  long 
enough  to  button  at  the  elbow. 

INSECT  PREPARATIONS. 

• 

The  following  mixtures  will  generally  afford  ample  pro- 
tection against  mosquitoes,  black  flies,  gnats,  &c.  Nos.  1 
and  2 we  have  found  perfectly  effective,  as  well  as  agree- 
able and  healing.  They  are  white,  pure  and  wholesome 
and  will  not  stain  the  skin.  They  are  infallible  even  where 
tar  and  other  mixtures  fail.  Formula  No.  4 is  extensively 
used  by  travelers  in  South  America,  where  insects  are 
most  numerous  and  poisonous  : 

No.  1 — One  half  ounce  of  oil  of  pennyroyal  poured 
into  3 ounces  of  melted  mutton  tallow.  Lard  is  sometimes 
used,  but  it  is  too  soft  and  is  not  as  healing. 

No.  2 — Six  ounces  mutton  tallow,  2 ounces  camphor,  2 
ounces  pennyroyal,  \ ounce  creosote  (or  carbolic  acid 
solution). 


t 


DESCRIPTIVE  guide. 

No.  3— Four  ounces  sweet  oil,  2 ounces  oil  of  tar,  J oz. 
oil  of  peppermint. 

No,  4— One  ounce  carbolic  acid  solution,  3 ounces 
melted  mutton  tallow  ; or  put  10  drops  of  the  solution 
in  a spoonful  of  water  and  apply. 

No.  5— Common  petroleum  is  said  to  be  perfectly  effica- 
cious. We  have  never  tested  it,  but  we  fear  the  “ remedy 
would  be  worse  than  the  disease”  as  the  odor  is  as  offen- 
sive to  man  as  to  insects.  It  is  applied  by  dropping  it  on 
a piece  of  cotton,  which  is  squeezed  out  as  dry  as  possible 
and  then  rubbed  over  the  face  and  hands. 

No.  6— Four  ounces  glycerine,  2\  drachms  oil  of  pep- 
permint, 4 drachms  spirits  of  turpentine. 

N°-  7 Two  ounces  oil  of  tar,  i ounce  spirits  camphor, 
4 ounces  castor  oil. 

Burning  camphor  gum  will  sometimes  expel  mosquitoes, 
&c.  Aqua-ammonia  is  an  excellent  article  for  reducing 
the  blotches  and  allaying  the  irritation  caused  by  insect 
stings. 

Islands,  when  suitable,  should  be  selected  for  camping 
grounds,  as  they  are  much  less  frequented  by  insects  than 
the  main  land.  The  lodge  should  be  erected  on  a point 
so  that  the  wind  may  sweep  away  these  pests. 

Tents  are  preferable  to  shanties  as  far  as  insects  are 
concerned,  for  they  can  be  completely  closed— thus  shut- 
ting out  these  noxious  intruders.  By  placing  a tent  upon 
a log  pen,  about  two  feet  high,  you  are  enabled  to  stand 
erect  within  it. 

A simple  shelter  tent  may  be  easily  made  by  driving  3 
or  4 small  poles  in  the  ground  at  a suitable  angle,  lashing 
another  pole  to  upper  ends  transversely  and  then  spreading 
a blanket  over  the  whole. 

A good  camp  bedstead  is  built  by  * placing  the  ends  of 


APPENDIX. 


247 

small  poles  closely  together  upon  two  parallel  logs,  driving 
a stake  at  each  corner.  Spread  over  this  a layer  of  hem- 
lock, spruce,  or  cedar  browse  for  a bed.  Over  this  bed- 
stead a mosquito-canopy  may  be  placed  to  good  advantage. 

The  months  of  May  and  June,  while  they  afford  the 
best  trolling  and  bait  fishing,  are  objectionable  on  the 
score  of  wet  and  cold  weather  and  the  great  prevalence 
of  insects.  In  June,  especially— the  pearl  of  the  seasons 
the  black-fly  abounds  in  amazing  numbers,  but  the  last 
days  of  the  month,  or  the  first  ones  of  the  next,  witness 
their  partial  disappearance.  Mosquitoes  and  punkies,  too, 
rapidly  depart  at  the  same  time;  hence  July  and  August; 
and  even  September,  are  the  favorite  months  for  camping 
out.  Through  the  period  comprised  in  these  months  th£ 
woods  are  dry,  and  the  climate  perfect.  Fly-fishing  at 
spring-holes,  and  jack  or  shore  hunting  for  deer,  are  also 
most  excellent  at  this  season  of  the  year. 

We  trust  the  reader  will  not  infer  from  anything  pre- 
ceding this,  that  in  this  Wilderness,  deer  and  fish  may  be 
had  at  the  asking  and  without  effort.  Care  and  skill  are 
requisite  in  obtaining  them  ; yet  when  provided  with 
experienced  guides,  no  party  need  experience  a scarcity  of 
trout  or  venison  while  sojourning  in  the  North  Woods. 

PROVISIONS. 

Supplies  of  all  kinds,  as  heretofore  frequently  noted 
may  be  obtained  at  the  different  hotels.  For  the  informa- 
tion of  those  who  prefer  to  carry  their  own  provisions,  we 
will  here  give  a list  of  articles,  such  as  we  should  select 
for  our  own  commissariat : 

Graham  flour,  Indian  meal,  oatmeal,  Boston  crackers, 
Holman  s baking  powder,  pork,  beans,  maple  sugar,  coffee- 


248 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


sugar,  tea,  coffee,  pepper,  salt,  dried  fruit,  canned  fruit 
(optional),  butter  (doubtful),  Borden’s  condensed  milk, 
^oap,  candles  and  matches. 

Selover’s  “ Self-Raising  Flour  ” (Prof.  Horsford’s  pro- 
cess) we  have  found  an  admirable  article,  being  both  con- 
venient and  healthful.  It  is  ever  ready  for  use,  and  soda, 
cream  of  tartar  and  baking  powders,  are  not  needed  when 
that  is  used.  It  is  manufactured  in  various  forms,  includ- 
ing white,  Graham,  and  buckwheat  flour,  and  Indian  meal. 
It  may  be  procured  of  your  grocer,  or  of  John  Y.  Selover, 
Auburn,  N.  Y. 

Most  of  the  above  named  articles  should  be  put  in  can- 
vas cloth  bags,  carefully  labeled.  Coffee  and  tea  are  best 
kept  in  tin  cans.  And  all  these  small  bags  should  be 
carried  in  grain  bags.  Indian  baskets  provided  with  oil 
cloth  covers,  are  most  useful  in  carrying  supplies  over  the 
portages. 

Guides  usually  (not  always)  furnish  cooking  utensils, 
which  should  comprise : — Tin  plates,  cheap  knives  and 
forks,  pewter  table  and  tea  spoons,  two  light  iron  frying- 
pans  with  handles,  tin  basins,  tin  pail  (5  or  6 quart),  tin 
pail  (6  or  8 quart),  tin  cups,  &c. 

We  must  not  omit  here  to  call  attention  to  an  ingenious 
contrivance  recently  invented,  whose  use  will  greatly  miti- 
gate the  trials  of  a “ carry.”  Guides  and  sportsmen  will  re- 
member how  awkward  a matter  it  is  to  transport  cooking 
utensils  over  a portage.  This  difficulty  is  avoided  by 
using  this  article,  which  weighs  but  16  pounds  and  costs 
only  $i7.  The  following  cut  will  serve  better  than  any 
description  to  illustrate  the  “patent  sportsman’s  kit,” 


APPENDIX. 


249 


“PATENT  SPORTSMAN’S  KIT,” 


Which  is  furnished  to  order  by  the  “ Union  Company, 
Syracuse,  N.  Y.”* 

We  also  invite  attention  to  the  various  invaluable 
inventions  herewith  described  : — 

Most  excellent  among  the  numerous  articles  recently 
introduced  for  the  benefit  of  tourists  and  sportsmen 
are  Holabird’s  Shooting  and  Fishing  Suits,  which  possess 
all  the  desirable  characteristics  of  comfort,  convenience, 
durability  and  cheapness.  Says  the  Forest  and  Sheam : — 

“Within  the  past  month  we  have  given  Holabird’s 
Shooting  Suit  a most  crucial  test  through  all  weathers 
and  in  various  kinds  of  cover,  and  take  more  than  usual 
satisfaction  in  volunteering  our  heartiest  approval  of  it. 

* In  preparing  supplies,  it  should  be  estimated  that  each  person  will  require 
daily  from  2 to  2-J-  pounds  of  food,  including  sugars,  See.  We  have  always 
found  2^  pounds  abundantly  sufficient. 


250 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


It  seems  not  only  to  be  water-proof,  but  it  is  invulnerable 
to  burs,  darning  needles,  wood  lice,  and  all  those  barbed 
and  pestiferous  seed  pods  that  attach  themselves  to  the 


(Sleeveless  Coat  and  Vest  with  Sleeves.)  (Vest  with  Sleeves.) 


clothing  and  vex  the  sportsman’s  epidermis.  It  is  very 
convenient  as  to  pouches  and  pockets, 'light  and  com- 
fortable to  wear,  and  paradoxically  cool  in  warm  weather 
and  warm  in  cool  weather.  No  sportsman  should  be 
vithout  one.” 


APPENDIX. 


251 


They  are  made  of  the  best  English  water  and  mildew- 
proof  duck,  dead  grass  color,  and  have  become  already 
widely  celebrated  for  their  desirability.  The  accompany- 
ing illustrations  more  explicitly  than  words  describe  the 
appearance  of  these  useful  and  unique  garments.  The 


prices  range  as  follows  : — 

Coats  with  Sleeves,  -----  $10.00 

Sleeveless  Coat  and  Vest  with  Sleeves,  - 14.00 

Pants,  -------  3.50 

Caps,  -------  2.50 


They  may  be  generally  obtained  in  the  large  cities 
of  dealers  in  sporting  goods, — otherwise  by  addressing 
the  manufacturer,  “ W.  H.  Holabird,  Valparaiso,  Ind.,” — 
in  which  case  the  chest,  waist  and  sleeve  measure  for 
coat  and  vest,  and  waist  and  inseam  measure  for  pants 
should  be  sent  with  the  order. 

We  also  earnestly  commend  Holabird  & Parks’  Patent 
Cartridge  Holder  (furnished  by  the  same  party)  which 
will  carry  brass  shells,  muzzle  down , and  hold  the  wad 
over  the  shot  firmly  to  its  place.  Decidedly  the  best 
invention  we  have  seen  for  carrying  shells.  Can  be 
attached  either  to  a vest  or  belt.  Send  for  a circular  as 
above,  or  ask  for  them  where  you  trade. 

In  preparing  an  outfit  for  hunting  or  fishing  excursions 
it  is  of  the  first  importance  that  due  measures  be  taken 


to  dress  the  feet  with  a comfortable  boot  or  shoe,  and  we 
are  happy  to  announce  that  the  great  desideratum  in  this 
matter  is  reached  in  Good’s  Oil  Tanned  Moccasins, 


252 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


which  have  acquired  a most  enviable  reputation  through- 
out the  country  as  the  best  foot  covering  ever  worn  by 
sportsmen.  They  are  always  soft  and  pliable  ; never 
injured  by  wetting  and  drying  ; impervious  to  water,  and 
very  durable.  They  are  highly  recommended  and  are 
being  adopted  generally  by  the  leading  sportsmen  in 
every  quarter.  They  leave  nothing  to  be  desired,  and  no 
outfit  is  complete  without  them.  They  are  made  in 
three  styles,  including  boots  and  shoes,  and  are  marvels 
in  cheapness  as  well  as  excellence.  The  style  illustrated 
costs  but  $2.80 ,free  by  mail.  For  full  particulars  address 
the  manufacturer,  “ Frank  Good,  Manchester,  N.  H.” 

It  is  advisable  that  “ campers  out  ” provide  themselves 
with  light  tents,  in  the  use  of  which  they  are  perfectly 
independent,  as  their  “ house  ” is  constantly  with  them. 
Good  “ A ” tents  can  now  be  obtained  at  from  $8.00  to 
$12.00.  We  especially  recommend  the  improved  Water 
and  Mildew-proof  Tents  manufactured  by  “ S.  Hem- 
menway,  over  Wall  Street  Ferry  House,  South  Street, 
New  York,”  and  “ Thomas  Martin,  276  Canal  Street, 
New  York.” 

It  is  with  more  than  ordinary  satisfaction  that  we 
introduce  to  the  notice  of  our  readers  a newly  patented 
device  of  the  most  novel  and  useful  character,  forming  a 
record  of  invention  and  progress  in  a matter  of  the 
greatest  importance.  Tourists  to  the  Wilderness  have 
always  felt  the  need  of  a light,  compact,  portable  couch 
which  would  secure  to  them  a comfortable  resting-place, 
and  assure  the  ease  and  comfort  of  home  in  the  heart 
of  the  “ wild  woods,”  and  dispense  with  the  necessity  of 
sleeping  on  the  cold,  damp  ground.  The  New  Patent 
Camp  Lounge  fills  every  requirement  in  all  these  partic- 
ulars. Says  the  Scientific  American : — 


(Copyright  Secured.) 

“ Any  who  either  for  pleasure  or  necessity  sleep  in  the 
open  air  will  find  the  Camp  Lounge  a light,  compact  and 
comfortable  couch. 


(Copyright  Secured.) 


“ It  is  composed  of  but  few  parts  which  may 
apart  and  all  that  is  essential  to  camping  in  the  forest, 


254 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


folded  into  very  small  space,  so  as  to  be  carried  in  a 
small  valise,  or  in  the  hand,  or  even  in  a deep  overcoat 
pocket. 

“It  is  a substitute  for  the  rubber,  woolen  and  other 
blankets  usually  carried  to  spread  upon  the  ground.  It 
may  also  be  pitched  upon  uneven  ground  securing  a 
delightful  resting  place  ; any  desirable  elevation  of  the 
head  may  be  obtained  by  driving  the  supporting  sticks 
more  or  less  into  the  soil.  It  besides  furnishes  a softer 
bed  and  raises  the  body  of  the  occupant  above  the'  sur- 
face, an  advantage  of  great  sanitary  importance. 

“ Saves  ten  times  its  weight  and  space  in  blankets,  and 
adds  a thousand  fold  to  the  comfort  of  the  camp. 

“ Ladies  will  camp  now.  They  can  enjoy  perfect 
repose  at  night  ; the  refreshing  rest  they  experience  at 
home.  Any  lady  familiar  with  the  Camp  Lounge  can 
put  it  together  in  one  minute.,, 


(Copyright  Secured  and  Trade  Marks  Patented.) 


With  a good  tent,  the  Camp  Lounge  in  the  Wilder- 
ness is  literally  “ house  and  home,” — cheap,  durable, 
indispensable.  They  are  also  useful  for  the  lawn,  piazza 
and  dwelling  as  well  as  for  the  camp  and  military  life. 
The  accompanying  engravings  fully  describe  their  simple 
working  and  admirable  qualities. 

The  Lounge  as  folded — which  includes  only  the  canvas 
and  the  head  and  foot  girths — weighs  but  little  over  two 
pounds.  The  side  and  supporting  sticks  do  not  add 
more  than  three  pounds  to  this  weight.  It  is  not  abso- 
lutely necessary  to  carry  these,  as  they  can  be  quickly 


APPENDIX. 


4SS 

cut  in  the  forest  with  a hatchet  and  fitted  to  the  ferules. 
Three  styles  are  manufactured  at  the  prices  annexed  : — 
The  “Adirondack,”  “Lumberman”  or  “Miner,”  $4 
each;  the  “Phil  Sheridan,”  in  plain  canvas,  $5  ; with 
both  plain  and  quilted  canvas,  in  repps,  $10. 

Parties  ordering  from  a great  distance  will  save  heavy 
express  charges  by  adding  85  cents  to  these  prices  for 
postage  which  insures  their  free  delivery  by  mail. 

Although  they  have  been  before  the  public  but  three 
or  four  months,  we  learn  that  the  orders  for  them  from 
every  State  and  Territory  in  the  Union  and  from  Canada 
are  already  overwhelming. 

We  recommend  all  interested  in  this  invention  to 
address  “Camp  Lounge  Co.,  Troy,  N.  Y” 

And  here  again  we  have  a great  need  supplied  by 
Duncklee’s  Patent  Camping  and  Mining  Stove.  (Outside 
dimensions,  packed,  12  x 12x20  inches.)  What  necessity 


(Cut  No.  x.) 


is  there  now  for  cooking  our  forest  meals  in  the  rain  by 
a smoking  fire  ? This  invaluable  article  weighs  only  25 
pounds,  is  very  durable,  and  will  cook  for  eight  or  ten 
persons.  It  is  especially  suitable  for  camping  purposes. 
The  Ware  consists  of  an  8 qt.  Kettle,  6 qt.  Tea  Kettle,  2 


256 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


qt.  Coffee  Pot,  Fry  Pan,  round  Tin  Pan,  2 square  Pans, 
Dipper,  Gridiron,  Tent  Collar,  and  8 feet  Funnel,  and  an 
Oven  that  will  roast  15  pounds  of  Beef. 

The  ware  is  so  constructed  that  it  nests  and  packs  in 
the  oven,  and  the  oven  and  funnel  pack  inside  of  the  stove, 
as  represented  in  cut  No.  2,  which  is  a Stove  packed 
for  shipment,  containing  all  the  ware  as  shown  in  cut 
No.  1.  The  funnel  is  made  a true  taper.  There  is  room 


(Cut  No.  2.) 


for  packing  half-dozen  Plates,  Knives,  Forks,  Spoons 
and  Drinking  Cups,  in  addition  to  articles  enumerated 
above.  It  should  be  observed  that  there  are  handles  on 
each  end  of  the  Stove  which  render  it  an  easy  matter  to 
carry  it  over  a portage.  These  stoves  are  frequently 
sold  for  mining  districts  where  they  are  carried  into  the 
interior  several  hundred  miles  on  pack  mules.  The 
manufacturer  makes  a larger  size,  with  cast  iron  top, 
weighing  33  pounds,  and  also  one  of  54  pounds  weight. 

Those  desiring  something  light,  durable  and  every 
way  fitted  for  camping  or  mining  purposes  will  find  these 
stoves  exactly  right.  They  have  been  received  invari- 
ably with  the  greatest  satisfaction  and  commendation. 
Prices,  too,  are  extremely  low,  viz : $15  for  the  smallest 
size  complete,  and  $25  for  the  largest  size.  The  manu- 
facturer’s address  is  “ H.  L.  Duncklee,  87  Blackstone 
Street,  (Box  2710,)  Boston.” 


APPENDIX. 


257 


After  we  are  provided  with  sporting  suits  and  boots, 
hunting  and  fishing  tackle,  tents,  camp  stoves  and 
lounges,  we  naturally  turn  to  the  subject  of  boats.  And 
here,  too,  we  find  that  invention  has  not  been  idle. 
Hegeman’s  Patent  Folding  Boat  is  a marvel  among 
sporting  goods,  and  an  article  of  great  utility  to  parties 
“ roughing  it  ” or  camping  out.  The  strong  points  in  its 
favor  are  these,  as  most  appropriately  given  by  that 
model  sportsman’s  paper — the  Rod  and  Rifle , formerly 
the  America ?i  Sportsman : — 

“ It  occupies  very  little  space,  is  perfectly  safe,  and  is 
so  light  that  it  carries  a weight  far  beyond  its  seeming 
displacement.  It  is  equally  useful  either  in  shallow  or 
deep  water,  and  it  lasts  for  years.  After  having  been 
used  throughout  the  war  for  military  purposes  it  is  now 
found  equally  well  adapted  to  purposes  of  peace.  The 
waterproof  quality  of  closely  woven  canvas  is  generally 
known,  and  by  stretching  this  material  on  a light  but 
strong  framework  a boat  is  constructed  as  light  as  a birch 
canoe,  yet  strong  enough  to  bear  great  weight,  and  tough 
enough  to  stand  rough  usage.” 


This  boat,  which  is  constructed  upon  a mechanical 
principle,  consists  of  a light  but  very  strong  and  durable 
frame  of  ash  or  other  tough  timber  which  can  be  folded 
in  one-eighth  space  for  transportation , with  strong  cotton 
duck  water-proof  canvas  cover.  It  will  admit  of  the 
roughest  usage — much  more  so  than  wooden  or  metallic 


258 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


boats — without  needing  repairs,  except  in  rare  cases, 
when  it  can  be  repaired  on  the  spot  by  any  person  in  a 
few  minutes’  time.  Perhaps  we  may  say  that  no  other 
kind  of  boat  will  compare  with  it  in  portableness,  safety 
and  durability.  It  can  be  carried  on  the  cars  as  ordinary 
baggage,  in  a carriage,  on  horseback,  or  by  a single  per- 
son ; and  can  be  unfolded  ready  for  use  within  a space 
of  three  minutes.  It  weighs  from  25  to  90  pounds,  and 
the  largest  size  (light)  draws  less  than  one  inch  of  water. 
They  are  meeting  with  a large  and  extended  sale  and 
have  given  perfect  satisfaction  wherever  introduced. 
They  are  shipped  to  any  part  of  the  country  by  express 
or  fast  freight  at  same  rates  as  ordinary  merchandise. 
For  circulars  and  price  list  address  “John  Hegeman, 
Ballston  Spa,  Saratoga  Co',  N.  Y.” 

Fully  equipped  with  all  the  appliances  and  accoutre- 
ments heretofore  named,  we  are  prepared — with  one 
important  exception — to  make  a night  excursion,  floating 
for  deer.'*  “The  one  thing  needful”  is  a “ Jack”  Lamp  ; 

*The  Game  Law. — Table  of  close  seasons  in  the  State  of  New  York, 
compiled  for  the  year  1875  : — 

t — NAMES  OF  FISH,  ANIMALS  AND  BIRDS. — ^ 

Fish. 


Trout, 

. Sept.  15  to  March  15. 

Salmon  Trout, 

. Oct.  1 to  March  1. 

Black  Bass,  . 

Jan.  1 to  May  20. 

Pickerel, 

. 

Pike, 

Masq’allonge, 

. 

. Jan.  1 to  May  20. 

Moose, 

Animals. 

Dec.  1 to  Sept.  1. 

Deer, 

. 

. Dec.  1 to  Sept.  1. 

Pinnated  Grouse, 

Birds. 

Jan.  1 to  Sept.  1. 

Ruffed  Grouse, 

. 

. Jan.  1 to  Sept.  1. 

Quail, 

Jan.  1 to  Oct.  20. 

Woodcock, 

. 

. Feb.  1 to  July  3. 

Wild  Fowl,  . 

. 

. May  1 to  Sept.  1. 

Geese,  . , 

. 

. May  1 to  Sept.  1. 

APPENDIX. 


259 

and  Eureka  ! here  is  met  the  long  felt  want  by  Boudren’s 
Patent  Reflecting  Jack  and  Dash  Lamp  * No  other 
lamp  has  ever  been  introduced — not  even  a “jack  on  the 
head  that  would  answer  fully  the  purpose  for  which 
it  was  intended.  It  has  received  the  enthusiastic 
endorsement  of  many  a veteran  hunter  who  had  long 
realized  the  necessity  of  such  an  invention  as  this.  It 


(Front  View  of  Lamp  for  Hunting.)  (View  of  Lamp  on  Carriage  Dash.) 

burns  kerosene  perfectly  and  safely  without  a chimney, 
and  throws  a powerful  light  200  feet.  It  is  not  affected 
by  rain,  wind  or  jolting,  and  affords  sportsmen  a reliable 
light,  with  which  they  can  hunt  in  any  weather,  thereby 
doubling  their  chances  for  sport.  It  is  also  indispensable 
about  a camp,  entirely  superseding  tallow  candles.  As 
a carriage  lamp  it  has  no  equal.  Fits  any  shape  dash, 
or  on  any  vehicle.  It  has  been  u^ed  with  success  in 
Mines,  on  Street  Railroad  Cars,  as  signals  on  Steamboats, 
Steam  Cars,  Stations  and  Sailing  Vessels. 

The  price  is  $ 6.00  each,  and  they  are  sent  “ C.  O.  D.” 
with  the  privilege  of  examination.  In  ordering  state 
whether  wanted  for  hunting,  or  other  use,  or  both.  Ad- 
dress “ White  Manufacturing  Co.,  Bridgeport,  Conn.” 

* While  engaged  in  “Jack-shooting”  better  not  smoke  “Vanity  Fair ” 
Its  use  is  allowable  at  all  other  times. 


260 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


In  addition  to  what  has  already  been  offered  on  the 
subject  of  “ Insect  Preparations,”  we  present  to  notice 
“ Dr.  Vega  Arango’s  South  American  Antidote”  for 


Mosquito,  Black  Fly  and  “ Punkey  ” bites.  One  drop 
of  this  wonderful  specific  applied  to  the  part  bitten  by 
these  detestable  Insects,  instantly  neutralizes  the  effects 
of  the  poison,  relieves  that  horrid  vexatious  stinging 
pain,  and  removes  the  distressing  inflammation  which 
invariably  follows,  thereby  provokingly  disfiguring  the 
face  and  body.  In  all  other  respects  this  antidote  is 
perfectly  innocuous,  and  will  neither  stain  nor  injure  the 
skin  or  clothes.  For  sale  by  all  druggists  at  25  cts.  per 
vial,  or  procurable  from  the  “Union  Co.,  Syracuse,  N 
Y.,”  General  Agents  for  the  United  States  and  Canadas. 

GUIDES. 

If  the  names  of  any  guides  are  omitted  in  the  tables 
appended,  it  shoulS  be  attributed  to  unintentional  over- 
sight. (Those  over-looked  will  please  to  notify  us.) 

Guides  charge  for  services  from  $2.50  to  $3.00  per 
day.  They  furnish  a boat,  an  ax,  perhaps  hatchet  and 
auger,  and  carry  all  the  luggage  over  the  portages — 
though  gentlemen  will  naturally  assist  them  somewhat 
in  this  laborious  operation.  Guides,  too,  do  all  the  cook- 
ing and  attend  to  all  the  domestic  duties  incident  to  camp 
life.  It  is  customary  for  two  individuals  to  employ  one 
guide  between  them — thus  reducing  the  cost  one-half. 


APPENDIX. 


26l 

Boats  may  be  hired  independent  of  guides  at  50  cents 
per  day.  The  expense  of  living,  while  in  the  woods,  need 
not  exceed  $2  for  each  person  per  week  ; and  even  this 
figure  may  be  considerably  reduced.  The  proximate  cost 
of  a journey  to  the  Adirondacks,  and  a sojourn  for  any  pe- 
riod therein,  may  be  easily  estimated  from  the  above  data. 

FULTON  CHAIN  GUIDES. 

Jack  Sheppard,  Alonzo  Wood,  Otis  Arnold,  Sam  Duna- 
kin,  George  C.  Ballard,  John  Van  Valkenburg,  Abner  P. 
Daniels,  Jerome  Wood,  Augustus  Syphert,  James  Higby, 
Isaac  Barnes,  Dwight  Grant,  John  Brinkerhoof,  John 
Meek,  Paul  Crego,  John  Kellogg,  Josiah  Holladay,  Paul 
Jones,  Josiah  Helmer,  Asa  Puffer. 

P.  O.  Address,  Boonville,  Oneida  Co .,  N.  Y. 

BEAVER  RIVER  GUIDES. 

Danfred  Knowlton,  Charley  R.  Smith,  Charles  H.  Smith, 
Mark  Smith,  Boyd  Edwards,  C.  Sylvester  Edwards,  John 
Hitchcock,  Jesse  Hitchcock,  William  Higby,  Albert 
Fenton,  Isaac  K.  Stone, James  Lewis,  Carlos  Murat  Alger,* 
Charles  Fenton,  Charles  Burke,  Seymour  J.  Hitchcock, 
Wayne  Collins, f Alexander  Jeffers,  f 

P.  O.  Address,  Watson , or  Lowville,  Lewis  Co.,  N.  Y. 

OSWEGATCHIE  OR  CRANBERRY  LAKE  GUIDES. 

John  Ward,  Stephen  Ward,  Spencer  Ward,  Charles 
Marsh. 

P.  O.  Address,  Fine,  St.  Lawrence  Co.,  N.  Y. 

John  Town,  Clark  Town,  Richard  Town,  Richard 
Thomas,  Ezra  Thomas,  Eleazer  Whitmarsh,  John  Negus, 


♦Address,  Martinsburg,  N.  Y. 
t Address,  Lowville,  N.  Y. 


262 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 

Jesse  Irish,  Giles  Irish,  Reuben  Irish,  Jackson  Ellis,  Wm. 
Allen,  Geo.  M.  Dillon,  Jr.,  C.  Carter. 

P.  O.  Address,  Russell , St.  Lawrence  Co.,  N.  Y. 

RAQUETTE  RIVER  GUIDES. 

H.  D.  Johnson,  Hiram  Jones,  A.  N.  Tupper,  H.  Davis, 
John  Leonard,  James  Bridge,  Charles  Heaton. 

P.  O.  Address,  Potsdam , Si.  Lawrence  Co.,  N.  Y. 
Chester  Day,  Henry  Day,  Eben  Willis,  Henry  Potter, 
Hector  Marden,  Edward  Bruce,  Frank  Lindsey,  John 
Wait,  Harlow  Pearsons,  J.  Baldwin,  Joseph  Whitney, John 
Ferry,  Oscar  Vibber,  James  Cook,  Allen  McCuen,  Lewis 
McCuen,  Benjamin  F.  Abies,  Aaron  Taylor,  Wm.  Buskirk, 
Walter  Marden,  Emory  Gale,  Michael  Wright,  Chas  Hutch- 
ins. 

P.  O.  Address,  Colton , St.  Lawrence  Co,,  N.  Y. 

ST.  REGIS  RIVER  GUIDES. 

J.  D.  Smith,  A.  Sabin,  A.  Farr,  J.  Farr,  J.  Chase,  A.  M. 
Sabin,  J.  McNiel,  D.  McNiel,  Jr.,0.  Merrills, Wm.  Edwards, 
Wm.  Ellis,  L.  Allen,  H.  Hart,  L.  Cheney,  J.  Niles,  M.  V. 
Rogers,  J.  P.  Smith. 

P.  O.  Address,  Dickinson  Center,  Franklin  Co.,  N.  K 

MEACHAM  LAKE  GUIDES. 

All.  Burr,  Cris.  Crandall,  Lime  Debar,  Hals  Sprague, 
Jim  Bean,  Fred.  Barns,  Dick  Woodruff,  Bill  Sprague,  Joe. 
Clark,  Bill  Danforth,  Chas  Selkirk,  A.  C.  McCollum, 
Elbridge  Hyde,  Dan.  Lathrop,  Charley  Stickney,  Dave 
Trine,  Meadore  La  Fountain,  Charley  La  May,  L.  Rogers, 
Geo.  Pond,  Rouse  Helms,  Sherman  Stancliff. 

P.  O.  Address,  Malone,  Franklin  Co.,  N.  Y. 

CHATEAUGAY  LAKE  GUIDES. 

D.  W.  Merrill,  E.  McPherson,  Nat.  Collins,  Wm.  R. 


APPENDIX. 


263 

Tupper,  John  Collins,  Geo.  Collins,  Tyler  Harris,  Wm. 
Spear,  Silas  Spear,  Rufus  Robinson,  James  Smith,  Antho- 
ny Sprague,  Geo.  McPherson,  Rans  Clark,  Agness  Peak, 
Thos.  Hurlburt,  Martin  Shutts,  Geo.  Hurlburt. 

P O.  Address,  Chateaugay  Lake , F anklin  Co .,  N.  Y. 

ST.  REGIS  LAKE  GUIDES. 

H.  Martin,  G.  Martin,  F.  Martin,  D.  Martin,  C.  Martin, 
Steve  xurner,  M.  Sawyer,  M.  St.  Germain,  Jim  Cross,  F. 
Holbert,  J.  McLaughlin,  J.  Hall,  E.  Hall,  A.  Brown,  J.  W. 
Miller,  J.  Baker,  J.  Rogers,  P.  King,  C.  Quarters,  W.  Moody, 
E.  Patterson,  S.  Warner,  L.  St.  Germain,  J.  Hayes,  E. 
White,  G.  Maloney,  O.  Coville,  S.  Otis,  C.  Dwight,  J.  Man- 
ley,  Geo.  Skiff,  T.  Labounty,  A.  Labounty,  F.  St.  Germain, 
Ed.  Robarge,  D.  Sweeny,  J.  Patterson. 

P.  O.  Address,  St.  Regis,  Franklin  Co. , N.  Y,  or  Bloom - 
ingdale , ns  sex  Co.,  N.  Y. 

SARANAC  GUIDES. 

G.  Ring,  W.  Ring,  J.  Grover,  H.  Coibeith,  Lute  Evans, 
R.  Reynolds,  J.  Reynolds,  F.  Reynolds,  Martin  Moody, 
W.  Hough,  A.  J.  Baker,  J.  Slater,  W.  Slater,  B.  Moody, 
Rant  Reynolds,  P.  Robbins,  Cort  Moody,  Jesse  Corey,  C. 
Corey,  R.  Nichols,  H.  Annis,  D.  Moody,  Harvey  Moody, 
James  McClelland,  W.  Martin,  Stephen  Martin,  J.  Vos- 
burgh,  J.  Solomon,  C.  Brown,  Ed.  Brown,  M.  Brown,  Geo. 
Mussin,  F.  Moody,  Ed.  Otis,  Geo.  Otis,  J.  Hughes,  W. 
Nye,  J.  Hanmer,  F.  Morehouse,  H.  Kent,  H.  Douglas,  J. 
Benham,  W.  Benham,  L.  Moody,  D.  L.  Moody,  Tid  Moody, 
F.  Nicholson,  D.  Cronk,  F.  Brown,  H.  Braman,  J.  Willson, ' 

J.  King,  Geo.  Wake,  T.  Hayley,  C.  Roberts,  John  Duketti 
M.  Mayhue,  H.  Solon,  W.  Morehouse,  S.  Torrence,  L. 
Dudley,  Geo.  Sweeny,  M.  Clough,  Henry  Wood,’  A. 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


264 

McKensie,  R.  Moody  Jas.  Filbrooks,  A.  Robbins.C.  Hecox, 
Samuel  Dunning,  D.  Dunning,  R.  Reynolds,  J.  Lunt. 

P,  O.  Address,  Lower  Saranac  Lake , Franklin  Co., 
N.  Y. 

hunter’s  home  guides. 

A.  Washburn,  C.  Stickney,  F.  Smith,  S.  Washburn,  P. 
Loverin,  Seth  Wardner. 

P.  O.  Address,  Merrills  oille,  Franklin  Co.,  N.  Y. 

AUSABLE  POND  GUIDES. 

Smith  Beede,  O.  Beede,  M.  Trumbull,  M.  Trude,  W. 
Trude,  M.  Holt,  O.  S.  Phelps,  E.  Phelps,  L.  S.  Lamb,  B. 
Estes,  Hiram  Holt,  A.  Crawford,  Harvey  Holt. 

P.  O.  Address,  Keene  Flats , Essex  Co .,  N.  Y. 

LAKE  PLACID  AND  NORTH  ELBA  GUIDES. 

E.  Lewis,  E.  Canada,  G.  Billings,  Wm.  Nye,  C.  Roberts, 
P.  Aldrich. 

P.  O.  Address,  North  Elba , Essex  Co .,  N.  Y. 

LONG  LAKE  GUIDES. 

Isaac  B.  C.  Robinson,  A.  C.  Robinson,  J.  C.  Robinson, 
W.  C.  Robinson,  A.  Hough,  A.  Wood,  C.  H.  Palmer,  B.  F. 
Emerson,  J.  D.  Plumbley,  A.  Cole,  R.  Howard,  J.  Wood, 
John  E.  Plumbley,  O.  D.  Hough,  M.  H.  Barnes,  W.  D. 
Jennings,  Reuben  Cary,  N.  Cary,  L.  Hall,  C.  B.  Hanmer, 
William  Helms,  D.  Helms,  H.  Helms,  Mitchell  Sabattis, 
J.  D.  Sabattis,  I.  Sabattis,  C.  Sabattis,  D.  Mix,  A.  Mix,  D. 
Keller,  C.  R.  Keller,  S.  Cole,  Henry  Stanton,  G.  Stanton, 
Clark  Farmer,  Capt.  Calvin  Parker. 

P.  O.  Address,  Long  Lake , Hamilton  Co .,  N.  Y. 


APPENDIX. 


i 


265 


LAKE  HARRIS  AND  ADIRONDACK  GUIDES. 

C.  Chase,  F.  Chase,  W.  Chase,  Jeff.  Chase,  Eli  Chase 
E.  R.  Sutton,  Sam.  Parker,  H.  Parker,  A.  Parker,  C.  a! 
Bissell,  Joe  Bissell,  Jas.  Bissell,  O.  Bissell,  N.  Bissell,  Chas. 
Bissell,  A.  Weatherby,  Wm.  Aldin,  W.  Williams,  V.  Hall, 
Jas.  Hall,  John  Cheney,  Henry  Snyder,  H.  Hall. 

P.  O.  Address,  Newcomb , Essex  Co.,  N.  Y 

(John  Davis,  proprietor  of  the  hotel  at  Newcomb,  will 
meet  parties  at  the  R.  R.  at  North  Creek  and  convey  them 
to  his  house,  when  requested.  Ample  allowance  should 
be  made  for  delays  of  the  mail.) 

ADDITIONAL  AUSABLE  POND  GUIDES. 

Tom.  Morrison,  Theodore  White,  Tom.  Parker. 

The  map  accompanying  this  volume— with  its  recent 
corrections  and  additions — will  be  found  most  reliable  and 
valuable.  To  its  author,  W.  W.  Ely,  M.D.,  we  desire  to 
express  our  obligations  for  the  many  courtesies  received 
from  him. 

For  Geographical  information,  we  take  pleasure  in  refer- 
ring to  Asher  and  Adams’  comprehensive  and  complete 
“New  Topographical  Atlas  and  Gazetteer  of  New  York”— 
an  admirable  publication,  which  has  been  of  great  assis- 
tance to  us  in  preparing  this  work. 

MEMORANDUM. 

Tourists,  Guides,  and  all  our  readers,  are  earnestly  re- 
quested to  inform  the  undersigned  of  any  errors  or  omis- 
sions they  may  discover  in  the  Descriptive  Guide,  and 
also  to  report  any  additional  facts  of  interest. 

E.  R.  Wallace, 
Syracuse,  N.  Y. 


General  Viet  of  Routes,  lodes  of  Access,  Expenses,  &c. 


ABBREVIATIONS. 


M.— Meals. 

L.— Lodging. 

D.— Day’s  board. 
W.— Week’s  board. 
F.  or  f.— Fare. 


h. — hour,  or  hours,  i.  e.  amount  of 
time  required  for  a journey, 
c. — cent. 

C.  or  c. — Conveyances. 

— . to;  example,  $2— $3. 


First. — Trenton  Falls,  (Moore’s  Falls  House,  D.  $4.  W.  $21.)  To  Prospect 
3 m. ; from  thence  this  route  is  identical  with  Route  No.  2.  (See  pp.  7 and  10.) 

Second. — Prospect  Station  to  Metcalf  Creek,  Jock’s  Lake,  &c.,  (p.  10.) 
To  Prospect  Village,  1%  m.  (Union  Hall,  M.  40c.);  Ed.  Wilkinson’s  Hotel,  16  m. 
(M.  40c.,  L.  25c.);  Beecraft’s,  11  m.  (M.  30c.,  D.  75c.,  W.  $5);  Metcalf  Creek,  5 
m.  Total,  33%  m. 

Wilkinson’s  to  Watkin’s,  5 m.  (M.  40c.,  L.  25c.);  Jock’s  L.,  9%  m.  Total,  32 
m.  Boats  by  Watkins. 

C.  by  L.  D.  Mealus,  (P.  O.  Prospect,)  Ed.  Wilkinson,  (P.  O.  Wilmurt,)  or  Giles 
Beecraft,  (P.  O.  Morehouseville,)  to  Beecraft’s;  $8— $10;  7 ;to  9 h.  Also  to 
Jock’s  L. ; $15— $18;  9 to  11  h.  Stop  over  night  at  Watkins. 

TTvird—  Remsen  to  Jock’s  Lake,  &c.,  (p.  11,)  (Dawson’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.)  To 
Reed’s— Dawson’s  old  place— 17  m.  (M.  40c.);  North  L.,  5 m.;  South  L.,  2 m.; 
Jock’s  L.,3  m.  Total,  27  m.*  Boats  by  Atwell  Martin  and  Hiram  Hubbard, 
guides.  C.  by  Wm.  P.  Owens  of  Remsen  to  South  L. ; $10— $15:  8 to  10  h. 

Fourth. — Alder  Creek  Station  to  Woodhull  Lakes,  (p.  11.)  To  White  Lake 
Corners,  9 m.  (Studor’s  Hotel,  M.40e„  L.  20c.);  Davison’s,  3 m.  (M.  40c.);  Wood- 
hull  L.,  8 m.  Total,  20  m.  Boats  by  C.  C.  Cleveland,  Chas.  Cowdry  and  H. 
Herrig,  guides.  C.  by  Philip  Studor,  (P.  O.  Forestport,)  from  Alder  Creek 
Station,  or  Boonville,  (p.  13;)  $10;  6 to  8 h. 

Fifth  —Boonville  to  Fulton  Chain,  (p.  13,)  (Hurlburt  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2.) 
To  Moose  R.,  12%  m.  (Lawrence’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2);  Arnold’s  old  place, 
11%  m.  (M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50);  Old  Forge,  2%  m.  (Arnold’s  Hotel,  M,  50c.,  D.  $2,  W. 
$10.50  to  $14.)  Total,  26%  m.  C.  by  Phelps  & HaUiday,  or  Ed.  N.  Arnold,  (P.  O. 
Boonville;)  $15  for  3 to  8 persons;  $5  each  for  1 or  2;  extra  saddle-horses  from 
Lawrence’s,  $5  each;  10  to  12  h.  Invalids  stop  over  at  Lawrence’s. 


* Ri<r  Qtniwai p.r  ft  fine  troutlne  locality,  on  W.  Canada  Creek,  is  3 m.  E.  of  Jock’s 
L.  Wd  plSo  ’ Thence  it  ii  7 w 8 m.  up  the  stream  to  W.  Canada  Lakes,  (p.187.) 


APPENDIX. 


267 


Sixth.  Port  Leyden  to  Fulton  Chain,  (p.  23.)  (Rarely  traveled.  See  Route 
5th,  p.  13.) 

Seventh.  Lyon’s  Palls  to  Fulton  Chain,  (p.  24.)  (Rarely  traveled.  See 
p.  13*) 

Eighth.— Martinsburg  Station  to  Number  Four  and  Stillwater  (p  25  ) To 
Watson,  3 m.  (Lewis’  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50);  No.  4,  15  m.  (Fenton  House,  M. 
50c.,  D,  $2,  W.  $10.50);  Stillwater,  11  m.  (Wardwell’s,  M,  50c.,  D $2 ) Total 
29  m.  C.  by  Ghas.  Fenton,  or  L.  B.  Lewis,  (P.  O.  Watson,)  from  Martinsburg  or 
Lowville  to  No.  4;  $6— $10;  4 to  5 h;  thence  to  Stillwater;  $6— $8;  4 to  5 h.* 
Ninth.  Lowville  to  Number  Four  and  Stillwater,  (p.  25,)  (Howell  and 
Lanpher  Hotels,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2.)  To  Watson,  3 m.;  No.  4,  15  m.;  Stillwater,  11 
m.  Total,  29  m.  Or  via  Dayansville,  (p.  26,)  32  m.  C.  by  Wilcox’s  Livery- 
prices  and  time  same  as  above. 

Tenth.  Carthage  to  Oswegatchie  Waters,  (p.  47,)  (Levis  House,  M.  50c., 
D.  $2.)  To  Belfort,  15  m.;+  Oswegatchie  R„  7 m.  Total,  22  m.  Carthage  to 
Harrisville,  20  m.— stage  daily  P.  M.,  f.  $1.50,  5 h.— (Harrisville  Hotel,  M.  50c. 
D.  $2,  W.  $5— $104)  C.  by  Ingraham’s  Livery,  Carthage;  $5  per  day. 

Eleventh. — Gouverneur  to  Cranberry  Lake  and  Oswegatchie  Waters  (p 
49,)  (VanBuren  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2.)  To  Fine,  25  m.;  E.  branch  Oswegatchie 
R.  to  Cranberry  L.,  11  m.  Total,  36  m.  Carthage  to  Harrisville,  20  m.  Liverv 
to  Fine  or  Harrisville,  $10;  5 to  8 h.  J 

Twelfth.— DeKalb  Junction  to  Cranberry  Lake,  (p.  50,)  (Union  Hotel  M 
50c.,  D.  $1.50.)  To  Russell,  11  m. ; Clarksboro,  11  m.  (Clarksboro  House  M 50c 
D.  $1.50);  Cranberry  L.,  14  m.  (Thomas’  Hotel,  M.  40c.,  D'.  $1,  W.  $5  ) Total  36 
m.  Stages  daily;  f.  $3;  9 toll  h.  Stop  over  at  Clarksboro. 

Thirteenth.— Potsdam  to  Stark’s  Falls,  on  Raquette  River,  (p.  52  ) (Matte- 
son  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2.)  To  Colton,  9 m.  (Empire  Exchange,  M 50c  )•  Stark’s 
Falls, ^m.  (Forest  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2,  W.  $7.)  Total,  21%  m.  Stage  daily 
P « M.  \ f.  $2  ^ 5 li. 

Fourteenth.  Ogdensburg,  (p.  57.)  ( See  previous  and  subsequent  routes.) 
Fifteenth.- Massena  Springs,  (p.  58,)  (White’s  Hotel,  M.  50c  D $2  W $12  ) 
Stage  daily  to  Potsdam  (15  m.),  and  Brasher  Falls  Depot  (10  m )•  f ’$1 ' 
previous  and  subseqxient  routes.)  v 


t.— Moira  to  Nine  Mile  -Level,  St.  Regis  River,  (p.  61 ) (Moira 
House,  M.  50c. , D.  $2.)  To  Lincolnson,  11%  m.  (McNeil’s  Hotel,  m’.  50c  D 
$1.50);  Nine  Mile  Level,  9 m.  (Spring  Cove  Cottage,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1  W $5— $7  i 
TotaJ,  20%  m.  Stage  daily  to  Lincolson;  f.  $1.  Livery  thence  to  the  “ Level 
$3-$5;  or  address  D.  S.  Smith-P.  O.  Dickinson  Center-and  he  will  convev’a 
single  person  for  $2;  each  additional  passenger  for  $1;  6 to  8 h. 

T0  Meaoham  Lam  and  Paul  Smith's,  Hunts's  Homs, 
&c„  (p  69,)  (Ferguson  House,  M.  75c.,  D.  *3.)  To  Duane,  15  m.  (Wm.  Ayer’s 
Hotel,  M.  50c.);  Meacham  L.,  10  m.  (Meacham  Lake  House.  M 75c  D $2  W 
$10J50);  Paul  Smith’s,  12  m.  (M.  75c.,  D.  $3,  W.  $17.50.)  Total,  37  m.|i’  5 toYI‘. 
to  Meacham  L. ; thence  to  Paul  Smith’s  about  3 h. 


aud’rebuiin6  fr°m  S,Ulmter  “>  -ow,  ae  the  brldgea  haye  been  repaired 

t“The  Old  State  Road”  is  traveled  no  farther  than  Belfort  at  present 

18  aflg0°A.8P0rtiing  SeCtion’and  future  editions  will  devote  more  space  to  it 
Pinffiiff  11  m!8  “ 6 the  dl8tance  t0  Meacham  L.  23  or  23*  m.;  and  thence  to 


268 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


Stage  daily  when  travel  demands  it;  f.  to  Meacham  L.  (four  or  more)  $2.50; 
thence  to  Smith’s,  $1.75.  C.  by  Chisholm  & Tobey’s  Livery  to  Branch  Pond  (8 
m.— Roger’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50);  State  Dam  (13  m.— State  Dam  House,  M. 
50c.,  D.  $1.50);  Bend  in  the  River  (10  m.— Myrtle  Bower  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50); 
Ragged  Lake  (16  m.— Ragged  Lake  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50);  Hunter’s  Home 
(30  m.— Smith’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50;  and  Chateaugay  Lake  (13  m.)  $5— $8  per 
day. 

Stage  every  Tuesday  for  Ausable  Forks  via  Hunter’s  Home;  f.  to  H.  H.  $2. 
Eighteenth. — Chateaugay  to  Chateaugay  Lakes,  (p.  82,)  (Union  House,  M. 
50c.,  D.  $2.)  To  L.  Chateaugay  L.,  8 m.— stage  daily,  f.  $2— (Bellow’s  Hotel,  M. 
50c.,  D.  $2);  thence  steamer  through  lakes,  f.  50c.  (Adirondack  House,  M.  50c., 
D.  $2,  W.  $10.50.) 

Nineteenth.— Rouse’s  Point  to  Mooer’s  Junction,  &c.,  (p.  85,)  (Lawrence’s 
Junction  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1  50.)  ( See  previous  and  subsequent  routes.) 

Twentieth—  Plattsburg  to  Chazy,  St.  Regis  and  Saranac  Lakes,  Hunter’s 
Home,  Rainbow  Lake,  &c.,  (p.  86,)  (Fouquet’s  Hotel,  M.  $1,  D.  $3.50.*)  To 
Dannemora,  16  m.  (Clinton  House,  M.  50c.);  Chazy  Lake,  5 m.  (Meader  House, 
M.  50c..  D.  $2).  Total.  21  m.  Stage  to  Dannemora;  f.  $1;  thence  Brooks  & 
Robert’s  Livery  to  Chazy  L. ; $2 — $3;  4 to  5 h. 

Plattsburg  to  Redford.  21  m.— stage  daily,  f.  $1.25;  Hunter’s  Home,  14  m.  (p. 
75);  Rainbow  L.,  9 m.  (Wardner’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50)  (p.  100).  Total,  44  m. 
C.  by  stage  props,  from  Redford  to  Hunter’s  Home  and  Wardner’s;  $8— $10 
and $12— $15;  8 to  10  and  11  to  14  h.  Stop  over  at  Redford  or  Hunter’s  Home, 
(M  50c.,  D.  $1.50). 

Plattsburg  to  Ausable  Chasm,  12  m.;  Stave  and  Ransom’s  Livery;  $5— $10; 
2 to  3 h. 

Plattsburg  to  Point  of  Rocks,  20  m. — R.  R.,  f.  $1;  L.  Saranac  Lake,  37  m.— 
stage  daily,  f.  $3.50— (Martin’s  Hotel,  M.  75c.,  D.  $2.50,  W.  $12— $15).  Total,  57 
m.  8 to  10  h.  (p.  114). 

Point  of  Rocks  to  St.  Regis  Lake,  39  m.  -stage  f.  $3.50— (Paul  Smith’s  Hotel, 
M.  75c.,  D.  $3,  W.  $17.50).  Total,  59  m.  8 to  10  h.  (p.  103). 

Point  of  Rocks  toU.  Saranac  Lake,  42  m.-stage  f.  $4,  $4.50-(Prospect  House, 
M.  75c.,  D.  $2,50,  W.  $12— $14).  Total,  62  m.  9 to  10  h.  (p.  126). 

On  these  three  roqtes  dine  at  Franklin  Falls  (Franklin  House,  M.  75c.) 

C.  by  the  stagemen  to  Martin’s,  via  Wilmington, i Whiteface  Mt.,  North  Elba 
and  Lake  Placid  (pp.  130—134);  also  from  Bloomingdale  to  Wardner’s;  also  from 
Ausable  Forks  to  Keene  Flats.  Stage  from  Ausable  Forks  to  the  Flats  Tuesday 
and  Saturday;  f.$2  (p.  134). 

Twenty-first.- Port  Kent  to  Ausable  Chasm,  Saranac  an?  St.  Regis  Lakes, 
(p  i46.)  To  Chasm,  3 m.  (Lake  View  House,  M.  75c.,  D.  $3— $4;  admission  to 
Chasm,  25c.);  Keeseville,  2 m.  (Ausable  House,  M.  75c.,  D.  $3,  W.  $9— $14);  Point 
of  Rocks,  9 m.  Thence  identical  with  Route  No.  20.  Stage  daily  from  Port 
Kent  to  Keeseville  (f.  50c);  thence  to  Bloomingdale  (f.  $3.50);  Martin’s  (f.  $4); 
Paul  Smith’s  (f.  $4);  and  Prospect  House  (f.  $l-$4.50)  Time  same  as  by 
Route  20th.  


* Special  Rates  to  “ Commercial  Travelers”  and  permanent  hoarders. 

+ Whiteface  Mt.  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2,  W.  $7-$12  ; saddle-horse  and  guide  up  White- 
fate  X$6?M.^  Lodge,”  $1-$1.50,  L.50c.-$1 ; 4 to  6 h. 


APPENDIX. 


269 


Twmtysexond.— Westport  to  Elizabethtown,  Keene  Flats,  North  Elba, 
Lake  Placid  and  L.  Saranac  Lake,  (p.  153.)  To  Elizabethtown,  8 m.— stage 
daily,  f.  $1— (Valley  House,.  M.  75c.,  D.  $2,  W.  $10— $12);  Keene,  12  m.— f.  $1.25— 
(Miller’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50,  W.  $7);  North  Elba,  10  m. — f.  $2 — (Scott’s 
Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50— $2,  W.  $7— $9);  North  Elba,  3 m.— f.  $2.25— (Lyon’s 
Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50);*  L.  Saranac  L.,  10  m. — f.  $3 — (Martin’s  Hotel).  Total, 
43  m.  8 to  101/ 

C.  by  stagemen  from  Elizabethtown  to  Keene  Flats;  $3 — $5;  Washbond’s 
stage  from  Westport  every  Tuesday  P.  M.  for  the  Flats,  20J£  m. — f.  $2;  7 h. — 
(Tahawus  House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50— $2,  W.  $8— $10;  Washbond’s,  Crawford’s, 
Hull’s,  Holt’s,  Beedes’,  &c.,  a little  lower  rates,)  (p.  144). 

Twmty-third  — Crown  Point  to  Schroon  Lake,  Schroon  River,  U.  Adiron- 
dack, Newcomb  and  Long  Lake,  &c.,  (p.  161,)  (Gunnison’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1 
— $2).  To  Schroon  L.,  22  m.  (Ondawa  House,  M.  75c.,  D.  $2.50,  W.  $12— $16).  R. 
R.  to  Hammond’s  Furnace;  thence  daily  stage  to  Schroon  L.,  14  m.;  f.  $2;  3)4 
to  5 h.  (p.  170). 

Crown  Pt.  to  Schroon  River,  19  m.  (Root’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.— 75c.,  D.  $2,  W.  $10); 
Boreas  River,  11  m.  (Bullard’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.):  Tahawus,  8 m.  (Cheney’s  Hotel, 
M.  50c.,  p.  164);  Newcomb,  7)4  m.  (Davis’  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2,  W.  $10,  p.  175); 
Long  Lake.  13  m.  (Kellogg’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2,  W.  $10,  p.  210).  Total,  58 )4  m. 
C.  by  A.  S.  Vial  or  Geo.  Gunnison  from  Crown  Pt.  to  Root’s;  $8— $10;  thence  to 
Clear  P.,  8 m.  (Fisk’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50,  W.  $8);  Elk  (Mud)  P.,  2 m.  (Bruce’s 
—formerly  Moore’s— Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50,  p.  163),  $4— $5;  to  U.  Adirondack, 
30  m.  (Moore’s,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50,  W.  $8,  p.  165),  $10— $15;  to  Newcomb.  $8— $10: 
to  Long  Lake,  $20. 

Stage  every  Tuesday  and  Friday  from  Root’s  to  Newcomb;  f.  about  $3. 
Stop  over  at  Boreas  River.  C.  also  by  John  Carly  and  Geo.  B.  Pease  from 
Port  Henry  to  Root’s,  18  m. ; $8— $10.  Estimate  time  at  rate  of  3 or  4 m.  per 
hour. 

Twenty-fourth. — Ticonderoga  to  Schroon  Lake,  &c.,  (p.  169,)  (Fort  Ticon- 
deroga  Hotel,  M.  $1,  D.  $2.50,  W.  $12— $15).  To  Paradox  Lake,  13  m.  (Brott’s 
Hotel,  M.  50c.);  Schroon  L.,  9 m.  (Ondawa  House,  p.  170).  TotaL,  22  m.  Livery, 
$8— $10;  5 to  7 h. 

Twenty-fifth. — Caldwell  (Lake  George)  to  Newcomb,  Long  Lake,  Blue  Mt. 
Lake.  &c.,  (pp.  172,  174,)  (Fort  Wm.  Henry  Hotel,  M.  $1.50,  D.  $5,  W.  special 
rates).  To  Chestertown,  18  m.  (Down’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.— 75c.,  D.  $2.  W.  $10— 
$16);  Pottersville,  6 m.  (Lock’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.);  Minerva,  8 m.  (Champney’s 
Hotel,  M.  50c.);  Newcomb,  20  m.  (p.  175);  Long  L.,  13  m.  (p.  210).  Total,  65  m. 
Stages  daily  to  Pottersville;  thence  every  Tuesday  and  Friday  evening  for 
Newcomb  and  Long  Lake— stopping  over  at  Minerva;  dine  at  Newcomb— 
Davis’  “Half-Way  House  ”— f.  $4.75;  f.  to  Long  L.,  $6.75;  about  1)4  days.  Or, 
Caldwell  to  Thurman,  9 m.— stage  daily,  f.  $1.25;  Adirondack  R.  R.  to  North 
Creek,  21  m.— f.  $1:  stage  daily  to  Minerva,  6 m.— f.  about  75c— connecting 
there  with  stage  to  Long  L.;  f,  from  North  Creek  to  Newcomb,  $3;  to  Long  L., 
$5.  (See  Route  26 th  and  pp.  182,  183,  for  routes  to  Schroon , Blue  Mt.  Lakes,  &c.) 

Twenty -sixth. — Saratoga  Springs  to  Lakes  Luzerne,  George,  Champlain, 
and  to  Schroon.  Blue  Mt.,  Long  Lakes,  &c.,  (p.  177,)  (United  States  Hotel,) 
To  Hadley  (L.  Luzerne),  22  m.— Adirondack  R.  R.,  f.  $1. 

N ash’s^M . *50c?,  D.  fefw^Mp2  ^Brewster’8  Hotel-  M-  5°C-.  D.  $2,  W.  $8-$10  ; 


270 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


To  Thurman,  36  m.— Adirondack  R.  R. ; Lake  George,  9 m.— stage.  Total,  45 
m.  Through  f . $2.  To  Glen’s  Falls  (R.  R.),  22  m. ; L.  George,  9 m.  Total,  31  m. 
Through  f.  $2.  (pp.  172,  174.)* 

To  Riverside,  50  m.  (Ad.  R.  R.,  f.  $2):  stage  to  Pottersvllle,  6 m.-f . $1;  steamer 
through  Schroon  Lake,  9 m.-f.  75c.  Total,  65  m.  5 to  6 h.  (pp.  170,  182.) 

To  North  Creek,  57  m.  (Adirondack  R.  R.,  f,  $2.25);  thence  to  Minerva,  New 
comb  and  Long  Lake,  as  per  Route  25th. 

North  Creek  (Adirondack  House,  M.  50c.)  to  Indian  River,  16  m.— stage  f. 
$1  50 — (Washburn’s  Hotel,  M.  40c.,  D.  $1,  W.  $5-$8);  Cedar  River,  3 m.-f.  $1.75 
-(Jackson’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $l-$2,  W.  $7— $14);  Cedar  River  Falls.  12#  m.- 
f.  $2.50-(Wakeley’s  Hotel,  M.  75c..  D.  $2,  W.  $12-$15).  Total,  31*  m.  Stage 
leaves  North  Creek  on  arrival  of  noon  train.  4 to  5 h.  to  Washburn  s and  Jac  - 
son’s;  8 to  9 h.  to  Wakeley’s.  C.  to  Chain  Lakes,  (Bonney’s  Hotel,  M.  50c., 
t).  $1.50,  W.  $7,)  Blue  Mt.,  Eagle  Lakes  and  Cedar  R.  Falls,  by  Washburn  or 
Jackson;  to  each  place,  $6 — $7,  (pp.  184,  185.) 

Twenty-seventh^ — Amsterdam  to  Lakes  Pleasant,  Piseco,  &c.,  (p.  194>HArnold 
Hotel  M 50c.)  To  Northville,  24  m„  (Sacondaga  Hotel,  M.  50c„  D $1.50), 
Sageville,  29  m.,  (Lake  Pleasant  Hotel,  M.  50c„  D.  $1.50,  W.  $10.)  Total,  53  m. 

Stage  daily  to  Northville,  where  passengers  stop  over;  thence  to  Lake  Pleas- 
ant every  Wednesday  and  Saturday-f.  $3.75.  Stage  also  from  Northville  to 
foot  of  L.  Pleasant,  same  days  and  f.-(Sturges  Hotel,  M.  50c.,  D.  $1.50,  W.  $10,) 
12  to  15  h.  (Future  editions  of  this  work  will  give  more  space  to  the  fine  neigh- 
boring sporting  region.) 

Twenty-eighth.- Fonda  to  Lakes  Pleasant,  Piseco,  Pine  Garoca,  &o.,  (p. 
195,)  (Fonda  Hotel,  M.  50c.)  To  Gloversville,  8 m.-R.  R-  f-  40c-“(^°° 
House,  M.  50c.,  D.  $2);  Northville,  17  m.;  Sageville,  29  m.  Total,  54m.  Stage 

daily  to  Northville;  thence  as  above— f.  $3.25.  /13.  . 

Gloversville  to  Garoga  Late,  10  m.;  Pine  L„  (Wheelerville,)  4 m.  (Prank 
Fobles,  M,  50c.);  danada  Lakes,  2 m. ; Arietta,  (Sacondaga  Branch  ) 7 m.  (Jones 
boarding-house,  M.  25c„  D.  75c„  W.  *5.25).  Total  from  Fonda,  31  -■ 

Stage  to, Pine  L.  every  Tuesday,  Thursday  and  Saturday,  f.  $1,-C.  by  M.  b. 
Van  Vranken  from  Gloversville  to  Arietta;  $10— $12 ; 6 to  8 1l  from  Fonda 
Arietta  (road)  to  Shaker  Place,  9 m.  (or  river  14  m.);  Fiaeoc . Lake,  5 m 
Dan  Rood’s  Hotel  on  lake,  2 m.  (M.  50c„  D.  $1).  Total,  from  Fonda,  47  m.  (p. 
198).  C.  by  Jones;  $5— 8;  4 to  5 h. 

Twmt,Mdn/h.  —Little  Falls  to  Piseco  and  Pleasant  Lakes  (p.  197 ) (Ben- 
ton House  and  Girvan  Honses,  M.  50c.,  D.  IM  To  Norway  11*  m More- 
house ville,  90  m„  (Mayeaus’s  Hotel,  M.  50c.  D.  *150);  Tl«oo  L , ^lC m Rood 
Hotel.  2 m.;  (see  Route  98th);  head  of  lake,  4 m.  Total,  4r*  m.  (p.  198.) 

Stage  doily  to  Norway;  C.  by  James  Churchill,  and  prop,  of  Girvan  House  to 

^Stage^aUy^to  Devereaux,  M m._f.  75c,  (Bevereanx  Hotel 

c.  by  the  propr.  of  hotel,  or  Mr.  Wood  (farmer)  thence  to  Piseco  L.,  $6- 

$12;  12  to  15  h.  from  Little  Falls. 

Thirtieth.- Herkimer  to  Piseco  and  Pleasant  Lakes,  (p.  198).  To  Norway, 

14  m.;  thence  same  as  per  Route  29th.  w nrnnr  (I  H 

Stage  daily  to  Newport  and  Gray,  24  m.— f.  S1-75’  ? ®5_®6  ner  day 

Griswold,  of  Newport,)  from  Herkimer  or  Gray  to  Piseco  L.,  $5-$6  per  day 

and  expenses;  12  to  15  h.  from  Little  Falls. _ 

Steamer  Minnehaha  through  Lake  George,  36  m.-f.  $2.  R.  »•  thence  to  Fort 
Ticonderoga,  4K  m.— f.  25c. 


APPENDIX. 


271 


5Pfide$  of  Sotel$  ijot  Pfeviou^ly  (^iyei|. 


LOCATION. 


Bartlett’s 

Corey’s 

Dukett  & Farmers’s 

“ Mother  Johnson’s  . . 

Carey’s 

Austin’s 

Moody’s 

Cronk’s  

Robbins’ 

Adirondack  House 

Mansion  House 

Jordan  House 

Johnson  Seavey’st 

Noah  Gale’s 

Island  Houses 


Saranac  River 

Upper  Saranac  Lake. 

Spectacle  Ponds 

Raquette  Falls 

Raquette  Lake. 

Eagle  Lake 

Big  Tupper  Lake 


Little  “ “ 

Keeseville 

Elizabethtown. 
Raquette  River. 


Long  Lake., 


50  to  75c 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50  to  75 

50 

50 

50  to  75 

50 

50 

50 

50 


2 

1 

1 50-2 
1 
1 
2 
1 
2 
2 

1 50-2 
1 
1 
2 


10  50  to  $14  00 
12  00 
12  00 
7 00 
10  50 
7 00 
10  00 
10  00  to 
7 00  to 
10  50  to 
ID  00 

7 00 
5 00  to 

8 00 
10  00 


14  00 
10  00 
14  00 


7 00 


* “ Mother  Johnson  ” died  in  January,  1875,  but  the  house  will  probably  be  continued 
as  a hotel. 

t Seavey’s  house  is  3 miles  from  Raquette  River  on  tn„  load  to  Tupper  Lake. 

I No  longer  kept  by  Davis,  of  Newcomb. 


SJkil  kqd  ^te'auqef  kqd 

(APPROXIMATE.) 


Utica  and  Black  River  Railroad. 


STATIONS. 

| Distances.  1 

Fare  from 
Utica. 

Fare  from 
Syracuse. 

Fare  from 
New  York. 

Utica 

$1  06 
1 78 

$5  00 
5 72 

Trenton  Falls 

17 

$72 

Prospect 

18 

76 

1 82 

5 76 

Remsen 

'1 

84 

1 90 

5 84 

Alder  Creek 

28 

l 16 

2 22 

6 16 

Boonville 

35 

1 40 

2 46 

6 40 

Port  Leyden 

Lyons  Falls 

42 

1 68 

2 74 

6 68 

45 

1 80 

2 86 

6 80 

Martinsburgh  1 

2 20 

3 26 

7 20 

T.owville  . ... 

59 

2 36 

3 42 
3 96 

7 36 
7 90 

Carthage 

74 

2 90 

Rome,  Watertown  & Ogdensburg 
Railroad. 


STATIONS. 

! Distances. 

Fare  from 
Rome. 

Fare  from 
Syracuse, 
via.  N.  k R. 

Fare  from 
New  York. 

Rome 

$5  28 
6 60 

Richland 

42 

$1  30 

$ 1 35 

Sandy  Creek  June.  2 

48 

1 46 

1 50 

6 80 

Watertown  June.  3 

71 

2 17 

2 12, 

7 47 

Watertown 

72 

2 20 

2 15 

7 50 

Gouverneur 

108 

3 25 

3 20 

8 55 

De  Kalb  Junction 

123 

3 70 

3 65 

9 00 

Ogdensburg 

142 

4 30 

4 20 

9 60 

Potsdam 

142 

4 25 

4 20 

9 55 

Potsdam  Junction.  4 

148 

4 45 

4 35 

9 75 

1 Fare  via  Syracuse  Northern  and  R.  W.  & O.  R.  R.  to  Martinsburg  *3  45  • to 

Lowville,  $3.33;  to  Carthage,  $2.83.  max  wnsourg,  , to 

2 Connects  with  Syracuse  Northern  R.  R.;  Sandy  Creek  Junction  to  Syracuse,  45  m. 

3 R.  W.  & O.  R.  R.  to  Cape  Vincent,  25  m. ; thence  by  the  new  and  ’elegant 

Steamer  Faxton  to  the  Thousand  ISLANDs-calling  at  Clayton  (f.  from  Syracuse. 
|3.60,  or  for  round  trip,  $6.50  ; from  Rome,  $3.55,  or  round  trip,  $6.20  ; from  Utica 
$3.8d,  or  round  trip,  $6.50  ; from  New  York.  $8.85,  or  round  trip,  $16.50) ; and  Alex- 
andbia  Bay  (from  Syracuse,  $3.85,  or  $7.00  ; from  Rome.  $3.90,  or  $7.05  ; from  Utica 
$4.20,  or  $7.35  ; from  New  York,  $9.20,  or  $17.00).  ’ * ’ ’ 

4 Stage  to  Massena  Springs  15  m ; f.  $1.00 : thence  to  Steamboat  Landing  on  St. 
Lawrence^  4^m.^  Carriage,  50c.  to  $2.00  ; f.  from  Syracuse  to  Springs,  $5.35;  from 


272 


DESCRIPTIVE  GUIDE. 


•ffcil  kqd  0tedmef  SWe  kQd  ©ifftkqde  TkUeft 

(CONTINUED.) 


Rensselaer  and  Saratoga  Rail- 
way. 

Ogdensburg  aad  Lake  Champlain 
Railway.  (Vermont  Central.) 

STATIONS. 

Distances. 

Fare  from 
j Albany. 

| Fare  from 
j New  York. 

STATIONS. 

Distances.. 

6 . 
o “ . 
& g M 

iP 

Fare  from 
Syracuse. 

Fare  fron 
New  York 

|(  igdeusburg 

$4  20 
4 35 

4 10 

5 20 

5 75 

6 20 

7 50 

8 00 

$9  60 

9 75 
10  16 

10  60 
11  15 
11  60 

A IV* 

il'oesdam  Junction  ... 

! Brasher  Falls  4 

I Moira 

jMalone 

'Chateaugay  5 

25 

36 

47 

61 

73 

106 

1118 

$0  94 

1 35 
1 76 

2 30 

2 15 

3 80 

4 25 

Saratoga  9 

Fort  Edward  7. . . . ... 

L.  Champlain,  W’hall. 

31 

54 

18 

$1  20 

1 70 

2 60 

$4  30 

4 80 

5 10 

New  York  Central  Railway. 

Mooer’s  6 

Rouses  Point ' 



STATIONS. 

| Distances. 

I Fare  from 
I Albany. 

Fare  from 
New  York. 

Lak*Tchamp!ain  Steamers. 

HOUSES  POINT  TO 

STATIONS. 

o» 

o 

5=1 

oPh 
& co 
CD 

© 2 

?o 

at* 
« . 

. 

+» 

CO 

3 

cS  o 
fupH 

__*S_ 

Schenectady 

Amsterdam 

IV 
33 
43 
V. 
81 
83 
9f 
10i 
1 14f 

66 

87 

[ 1 41 

1 62 

; 1 6£ 

i 1 9C 

» 2 IE 

$1  2 9( 

3 76 

3 91 

4 57 

! 4 72 

1 4 76 

) 5 00 

1 5 28 

> 6 06 

Fonda 

Little  Falls 

Herkimer 

Ilion 

Utica  

Rome  2 

Syracuse  3 

Plattsburgh 

Port  Kent 

Burlington 

Westport 

Crown  Point 

|Ticonderoga8 

~25 
4'0 
50 
, 75 

95 
106 

$1  00 

1 50 

2 00 

3 06 

4 00 
4 50 

$9  30 
8 80 
8 40 
7 60 
6 55 
6 05 

1 Connects  with  Utica  and  Black  River  R.  R. 

2 Connects  with  Rome,  Watertown  & Ogdensburg  R.  R- 

3 Connects  with  Syracuse  Northern  R.  R- 

4 Stage  to  Massena  Springs,  10  m.  ; fare,  $1.00. 

“FafetortM w TotH  to  Cbcteaugay.  via.  Lake  Champlain  and  FlatWtnrg,  »U*i 
to  Malone,  $11.50. 

noon  next  day  . 

6 Montreal  ft  Plattt  .urg  E.  B.  to  Plattsbnrg,  20  m.-fare,  90o. ; fare  from  Syracuse 
to  Plattsburg,  $8.50. 

7 Branch  R.  R.  to  Glen’s  Falls,  5 m.  ; fare,  25c.  ; thence  stage  to  Lake  George,  9 m.  • 
fare,  $1.25. 

8 csrTiconderoga  to  Whitehall,  via.  N.  Y.  and  CanadaR.  R.,  24  m. ; fare,  90c. 

8 |pr  iieonaeroga  plattsburg  (Steamer),  $3.25 

•*  “ Lake  George,  4 1-2  m. ; R.  R.fare,  25c. 


9  U^r-Schenectady  to  Saratoga  Springs,  via.  R.  & S.  R.  R- 


APPENDIX. 


273 


✓ 


Hotel  an!  /aer  Changes  that  have  Occurred  since  the  last  Edition  was  Issued. ' 


Union  Hall  is  now  the  leading  hotel  in  Prospect  Village  (p.  11). 

Old  Forge  House  is  now  kept  by  Ed.  N.  Arnold  (p.  16). 

B^“FOR  INFORMATION  RELATING  TO  THE  EARLY  SETTLEMENT  OF  THIS  SECTION— 

“John  Brown’s  Tract”— the  reader  is  referred  to  “Summerings  in  the 
Wilderness.” 

Caleb  Lyon’s  gothic  villa  has  been  destroyed  by  fire  (p.  24). 

||^P“For  a complete  history  of  the  settlement  of  “Number  Four”  (p. 
26),  see  “Summerings  in  the  Wilderness.”* 

[Note.— To  make  Crooked  Lake  “as  straight  as  an  arrow,”  its  large  bay 
must  be  ignored,  p.  27.] 

The  “ Old  State  Road  ” is  passable  again  from  Stillwater  to  Little  Rapids 
(p.  32),  but  it  is  not  traveled  from  Belfort  to  No.  4 (p.  48).  At  Carthage,  the 
Levis  is  the  leading  hotel  (p.  47). 

Forest  House,  at  Stark’s  Falls  (p.  53),  is  now  kept  by  Norton  & Snell  and 
Jordan  House  by  M.  N.  Ober.  Stage  daily  from  Potsdam  to  “Forest  House.” 

Meacham  Lake  House  is  now  kept  by  A.  R.  Fuller  (p.  71);  and  State  Dam 
House,  by  R.  J.  Cunningham  (p.  76). 

Prospect  House  (commonly  termed  “ Hough’s  ”),  at  head  of  Upper  Saranac 
Lake,  is  now  managed  by  H.  H.  VanArnam  (pp.  75,  108,  109,  113,  115,  116, 126,  127, 
129);  and  St.  Armand  House,  at  Bloomingdale,  by  Tohn  H.  Titus  (p.  114).  Tel- 
egraph extended  to  both  these  points. 

Milote  Baker  died  a few  months  ago  (p.  114). 

The  “ Philosopher’s  Camp,”  at  Ampersand  P.,  is  fast  going  to  decay  (p.  118). 

Whiteface  Mt.  House  (S.  H.  Weston,  prop.)  is  now  managed  by  T.  J.  Bald- 
win (p.  130). 

Elk  Pond  House  (formerly  called  “Mud  Pond”)  is  now  kept  by  M.  Bruce 
(pp.  145  and  163). 

Valley  House,  at  Elizabethtown,  has  been  greatly  enlarged  and  now  accom- 
modates 100  to  150  guests  (p.  157). 

U.  Adirondack.— Mr.  Hunter  has  been  succeeded  by  J.  Moore  (p.  165). 

[Note. — Avalanche  Lake  (p.  168)  lies  m.  N.  of  L.  Colden  and  the  route  to 
the  summit  of  Mt.  Marcy.  Mt.  McMartin  is  generally  known  as  Mt.  Colden.] 

Long  Lake. — Kellogg’s  Hotel  is  the  only  house  that  entertains  travelers 
and  boarders  (pp.  209  and  210),  except  the  Island  House  (p.  215)  which  has  re- 
cently changed  proprietors. 

Mother  Johnson  died  in  January,  but  the  house  will  be  kept  open  to  the 
public  (p.  217). 

Lake  Side  House  (formerly  “ Graves’  Lodge  ”)  at  Big  Tupper  Lake,  is  now 
kept  by  David  Cronk  (p.  222,  P.  O.  Saranac  Lake). 

Little  Tupper  Lake.  Entertainment  provided  by  “Pinnee”  Robbins,  at 
Sand  Point  (p.  232). 

f 

*A  New  Adirondack  Book,  by  H.  Perry  Smith.  Richly  illustrated,  map,  &c. 
12  mo.  cloth,  $2.50.  This  humorous  record  of  Sporting  Adventures  in  the  Great 
North  Woods  is  endorsed  by  Headley,  Hammond,  Street,  Lossing,  Taylor, 
“Paul”  Smith,  Martin,  and  other  great  authorities.  Mailed  free  on  receipt  pt 
price.  Address,  “Waverley  Publishing  Co.,”  Syracuse,  N.  Y. 


ADDENDA. 


ROUTES  FROM  PLATTSBURGH. 


FOUQUET’S  HOTEL. 


Ausable  Chasm.— By  carriage,  12  miles.* 

Ausable  Chasm.— Rail  to  Peru,  10  m. ; thence  by  stage,  5 m.  Total,  15  miles 

Ausable  Chasm. — Steamer  to  Port  Kent,  15  m. ; thence  by  stage,  3 m.  Total, 
18  miles. 

Paul  Smith’s,  St.  Regis  Lake.— Rail  to  Point  of  Rocks,  20  m.:  stage  to 
Ausable  Forks,  3 m. ; Franklin  Falls,  18  m. ; Bloomingdale,  8 m. ; Smith’s,  10  m. 
Total,  59  miles. 

Distances  between  points  of  interest  on  the  W.  Branch  of  the  St.  Regis.  (These 
distances  are  estimated  following  the  course  of  the  river,  which  is  very  tortu- 
ous. 

From  Paul  Smith’s  to  St.  Regis  Pond,  via  Spitfire  Pond,  U.  St.  Regis  Lake, 
Bog,  Bear,  Turtle,  Little  Long  and  Little  Green  Ponds,  5^  m. ; thence  to  Ochre 
P.,  1 m. ; thence  to  FishP.,  2%  m.;  thence  to  Beaver  Dams,  10  m. ; thence  to 
Bay  Pond  Outlet,  3 m.;  thence  to  Little  Falls,  12  m. ; thence  to  St.  Lawrence 
Cq.  Line,  3 m.;  thence  to  Saw  Mill,  22  m. ; thence  road  to  Parishville,  7 m.  ; 
thence  road  to  Potsdam,  9)4  m.  Total,  75)4  miles. 

Hotels,  Upper  Saranac  Lake,  via  Bloomingdale  and  Paul  Smith’s. — Bloom- 
ingdale, 49m. ; Paul  Smith’s,  10  m. ; Prospect  House,  10  m. ; Bartletts,  8)4  m. 
Total,  77)4  miles. 

Prospect  House,  Upper  Saranac  Lake,  via  Point  op  Rocks  and  Blooming- 
dale.— Bloomingdale,  49  m. ; Stage,  13  m.  Total,  62  miles. 

Martin’s,  Lower  Saranac  Lake,  via  Point  op  Rocks  and  Bloomingdale. — 
Rail  to  Point  of  Rocks,  20  m. ; Stage  to  Martin’s,  37  m.  Total.  57  miles. 

Martin’s,  via  Whiteface  Mt.,  Wilmington  Pass,  John  Brown’s  Grave  and 
Lake  Placid. — Rail  to  Point  of  Rocks,  20  m.  ; Stage  to  Wilmington,  (Weston’s 
Whiteface  Mt.  House)  13  m.  ; Wilmington  Pass,  5 m.  ; North  Elba,  8 m.  ; Mar- 
tin’s, 10  m.  Total,  56  miles. 

(North  Elba,  Lyon’s  Hotel,  to  John  Brown’s  Grave,  1%  m.  Total,  47)4  miles. 
North  Elba,  to  Lake  Placid,  Nash  & Brewster’s  Hotels,  2 m.  Total,  48  miles.) 

Summit  op  Whiteface  Mt.,  Carriage  from  Wilmington,  2)4  m.  ; saddle  horses 
to  Summit,  (Rustic  Lodge,)  3%  m.  Total,  39)^  miles. 


* By  this  route  this  sublime  natural  wonder  is  reached  by  a delightful  carriage firive 
along  the  shore  of  Lake  Champlain,  winding  through  beautiful  groves,  and  fordirig  the 
Ausable  R.  just  above  its  mouth.  Bluff  Point  is  situated  3 miles  south  of  Plattsburgh, 
on  the  lake  shore  road  to  the  Chasm.  This  is  a bold  promontory  overlooking  Cum- 
berland Bay  and  the  scene  ol  Macdonough’s  victory,  and  also  the  narrow  strait  be- 
tween Valcour  Island  and  the  main  shore,  rendered  famous  by  Arnold’s  Naval  Engage- 
ment in  Oct.,  1776.  An  Observatory  60  feet  high  has  been  erected  upon  the  promon- 
tory, from  which  a beautiful  and  extended  view  of  the  lake,  the  Green  Mountains,  the 
Adirondacks  and  the  surrounding  country,  including  the  State’s  Prison  at  Dannemora, 
is  obtained.  Visitors  en  route  to  the  Chasm  should  stop  here,  ascend  the  observatory 
y nd  be  rewarded  by  one  of  the  finest  prospects  the  continent  affords. 


ADDENDA. 


Martin’s,  via  Ausable  Chasm,  Keeseville  and  Wilmington  Pass.— Carriage 
to  Chasm,  12  m.  ; Keeseville,  (Ausable  House,)  3 m. ; Wilmington,  22  m.  ; North 
Elba,  13  m.  ; Martin’s,  10  m.  Total,  60  miles. 

Martin’s,  to  Paul  Smith’s. — Lower  Saranac  L.,  6 m.  ; Saranac  River,  3 m.  ; 
Round  L.  and  River  to  Bartlett’s,  3 m.  ; Portage,  % m.  ; U.  Saranac  Lake  to 
Prospect  House,  8 m.  ; carriage,  4 m.  ; Big  Clear  Pond,  2 m.  ; Portage,  1%  m-  '•> 
U.  St.  Regis  Lake,  1 m.  ; Spitfire  Pond,  1 m.  ; L.  St.  Regis  Lake,  1%  m.  Total, 
31%  miles. 

Bartlett’s,  via  Point  of  Rocks  and  Martin’s.— Rail  and  stage  to  Martin’s, 
57  m.  ; boat  to  Bartlett’s,  12  m.  Total,  69  miles. 

Kellogg’s  Hotel,  Long  Lake,  via  Martin’s,  Bartlett’s  and  Mother 
Johnson’s. — Rail  and  stage  to  Martin’s,  57  m. ; boat  to  Bartlett’s,  12  m. ; Port- 
age, % m.;  Upper  Saranac  L.  to  Corey  L.,  l%m.;  Indian  Carry,  1 m. ; to  Dukett 
and  Farmer’s  Spectacle  Ponds,  2 m. ; Stony  Creek,  3 m. : Raquette  iver,  6 m.,* 
portage  at  Mother  Johnson’s,  1%  m.;  Raquette  R.,  6 m. ; Long  L.  to  Kellogg’s, 
10  m.  Total,  100  miles. 

Kellogg’s,  via  Paul  Smith’s,  106%  miles. 

Boonvllle,  via  Martin’s,  Bartlett’s  and  Kellogg’s — Rail  and  stage  to 
Martin’s,  57  m.  ; boat  and  pack  to  Kellogg’s,  43  m.  ; thence  to  head  of  Long 
Lake,  3%  m.  ; Raquette  River,  4%  m.  ; (3  portages  of  %,  1-6  and  1%  m.,  each 
included ;)  Forked  Lake,  4 m. ; Portage,  % m. ; Raquette  Lake,  9 m. ; Brown’s 
Tract  Inlet,  4 m.;  Portage,  1%  m. ; 8th  Lake,  1%  m. ; Portage,  1%  m. ; Outlet, 
1%  m. ; 7th  Lake,  2 m. ; Outlet,  1 m. ; 6th  Lake,  % m. ; Portage,  % m. ; 5th  Lake, 
% m.  ; Portage,  or  Outlet  % m. ; 4th  Lake,  6 m. ; Outlet,  % m. ; 3d  Lake,  1 m.; 
Outlet,  20  r. ; 2d  Lake,  1%  m. ; 1st  Lake,  1%  m. ; Moose  River,  2%  m. ; (Old  Forge 
Hotel,)  road  to  Arnold’s,  2%  m.;  Lawrence’s  11%  m. ; Boonville,  12%  m.  Total 
174%  miles.  Distance  to  Boonville  via  Paul  Smith’s,  181  miles. 

Lowville,  via  Martin’s,  Bartlett’s,  and  Tupper  Lakes. — Rail  and  stage  to 
Martin’s,  57  m.;  boat  to  Bartlett’s,  12  m.;  Portage,  % m.;  Upper  Saranac  Lake 
to  Daniel’s,  2 m. ; Sweeney’s  Carry,  3 m. ; Raquette  River,  11%  m. ; Big  Tupper 
Lake,  7 m. ; Portage,  15  r. ; Bog  River,  2 m. ; L.  Tupper  Lake  Stream  % m. ; Por- 
tage, % m. ; Stream,  % m. ; Portage,  1%  m. ; Round  P.,  2%  m. ; Stream,  lm.;L. 
Tupper  Lake,  6 m. ; Smith’s  Inlet,  3 m.  ; Portage,  % m.;  Charley  P.,  % m. ; Por- 
tage, 1%  m. ; Smith’s  L.,  3 m. ; Beaver  R.,  1%  m. ; Portage,  % m.  ; Albany  L.,  4 
m.;  River,  % m.;  Portage,  % m.;  River,  1%  m.;  Portage,  (Little  Rapids,)  % m.; 
River  to  Stillwater,  (Wardwell’s,)  20  m.,  (or  road  9 m.;)  road  to  No.  4,  (Fen- 
ton’s Hotel,)  11  m. ; road  to  Lowville,  18  m.  Total,  173%  miles.  (Or  if  follow 
road  from  Little  Rapids  to  Stillwater,  162%  miles.)  Distance  to  Lowville,  via. 
Paul  Smith’s,  179%  miles. 

Lake  George,  vid  Martin’s,  Bartlett’s,  Kellogg’s  and  Lowbr  Adirondack. 
—Rail  and  stage  to  Martin’s,  57  m. ; boat  and  pack  to  Kellogg’s,  43  m. ; Newcomb, 
(Davis’ Hotel,)  13  m. ; Lower  Adirondack,  (Cheney’s  Hotel,)  20%  m. ; Minerva, 
15  m.;  Pottersville,  8 m. ; Chester,  6 m. ; Warrensburg,  12  m.;  thence  to  Cald- 
well, 6 m.  Total,  167%  miles.  Via  Paul  Smith’s  and  U.  Saranac  Lake,  173% 
miles. 

Lake  George,  via  Keeseville,  Elizabethtown  and  Schroon  Lake,  102  miles. 

Keeseville.— By  carriage  direct,  15  m.  By  steamer  to  Port  Kent,  15  m. ; 
thence  by  stage,  via  Ausable  Chasm,  5 m. ; (or  direct  route  4 m.)  Total  20 
miles. 


ADDENDA. 


Elizabethtown,  via  Ausable  Chasm,  Keeseville  and  Poke  O’Moonshine. — 
Carriage  to  Keeseville,  15  m. ; Poke  O’Moonshine,  7 m. ; Elizabethtown  15  m. 
Total,  37  miles. 

Elizabethtown,  via  Ausable  Chasm,  Keeseville,  Wilmington  Pass  and 
Keene: — Chasm,  12  m. ; Keeseville,  3 m. ; Wilmington,  22  m. ; Pass,  5 m. ; Scott’s, 
(North  Elba,)  9 m. ; Keene,  10  m. ; Elizabethtown,  12  m.  Total,  73  miles. 

Wilmington  to  Elizabethtown,  direct,  (via  Upper  Jay  and  Keene,)  22  miles. 

Schroon  Lake,  via  Keeseville,  Poke  O’Moonshine,  Elizabethtown  and 
Schroon  River. — Keeseville,  15  m. ; Poke  O’Moonshine,  7 m. ; Elizabethtown, 
15  m. ; Schroon  River,  (Root’s  Hotel,)  23  m. ; Schroon  Lake,  (Ondawa  House,) 
9 m.  Total,  69  miles. 

Schroon  Lake,  via  Lake  Champlain  and  Crown  Point.— Steamer  to  Crown 
Point,  (Gunni  on’s  Hotel,)  70  m. ; carriage  to  Schroon  Lake,  22  m.  Total  92 
miles. 

Schroon  Lake,  via  Lake  Champlain  and  Ticonderoga.— Steamer  to  Ticon- 
deroga,  81  m. : carriage  to  Schroon  Lake,  22  m.  Total,  103  miles. 

Schroon  Lake,  via  Lake  Champlain,  Lake  George,  Warrensburg,  Chester 
and  Pottersvtlle. — Steamer  to  Ticonderoga,  81  m. ; cars  to  Lake  George,  4% 
m. ; Steamer  to  Caldwell,  (Fort  Wm.  Henry  Hotel,)  36  m. ; stage  to  Warrensburg, 
6 m. ; Chester,  12  m. ; Pottersville,  6 m. ; Schroon  Lake,  9 m.  Total,  154  miles. 

Summit  of  Mt.  Marcy.— Rail  to  Point  of  Rocks,  20  m.:  stage  or  carriage  to 
Lower  Jay,  9 m.;  Upper  Jay,  3m.;  Keene,  5 m.:  Keene  Flats,  (Dibble’s,)  5 m.; 
Beede’s,  2)4  m.;  pack  or  saddle  horses,  (road  very  rough,)  3)4  m.;  Lowe? 
Ausable  P.,  1%  m. ; Portage,  1 m. ; pack  to  summit  of  Mt.  Marcy,  5%  m.  Total, 
56  miles. 

Summit  of  Mt.  Marcy  to  Upper  Adirondack,  13  miles. 

Upper  Adirondack  from  U.  Ausable  P.,  trail,  8 or  10  miles.* 

Trail  from  U.  Ausable  P.,  to  Root’s  Hotel,  via  Elk  and  Clear  P’s.,  Schroon 
River,  15%  miles. 

Upper  Adirondack,  via  Wilmington  Pass  and  Indian  Pass.— Rail  to  Point  of 
Rocks,  20  m. ; Wilmington,  13  m. ; W.  Pass,  5 m. ; Blin’s,  (North  Elba.)  8 m. ; pack 
to  Indian  Pass,  10  m. ; Pass,  1 m. ; Upper  Adirondack,  5 m.  Total,  62  miles. 
(Moore’s  Hotel.) 

Silver  Lake,  via  Point  of  Rocks.— Rail  to  Point  of  Rocks,  20  m. ; stage  to 
Black  Brook,  7 m. ; carriage  to  Silver  Lake,  7 m.  Total,  34  miles. 

Silver  Lake,  via  Saranac  Forks. — Stage  to  Redford,  21  m. ; carriage,  (via 
Saranac  Forks,  2 m. ;)  7%  m.  Total,  28)4  miles. 

Hunter's  Home  and  Rainbow  House.— Stage  to  Redford,  21  m. ; private  con- 
veyance to  Saranac  Forks,  2 m. ; Goldsmith’s,  8 m. ; Hunter’s  Home,  4 m.  Total, 
35  miles. 

Hunter’s  Home  to  Rainbow  Lake,  (Wardner’s  Rainbow  House,)  9 m.  by  road 
or  11%  m.  by  water  ; thence  to  Paul  Smith’s,  7 m.  by  road  or  6 m.  by  water.  Rain- 
bow House  to  Bloomingdale,  7 miles. 

Hunter’s  Home  to  Merrillsville,  1 m. ; Yermontville,  5 m. ; Bloomingdale,  3 m. ; 
Martin’s,  8 m.  Total,  17  miles. 

* Upper  Adirondack  to  Calamity  P.,5m. ; L.  Colden,  2 m. ; base  of  Marcy,  2 m.  ; Sum- 
mit, 4 m-  Total,  13  miles. 


ADDENDA. 


Chazy  Lake. — Stage  daily  to  Dannemora,  (Clinton  House,)  16  m. ; carriage  to 
Chazy  Lake,  (Meader’s  Hotel,)  5 m.  Total,  21  miles.  (Upper  Chateaugay  Lake 
is  5 m.  from  Chazy  Lake,  by  new  plank  road.) 

Chateaugay  Lakes. — Rail  to  Mooer’s  Junction,  (Lawrence’s  Junction  House,) 
20  m.;  thence  rail  to  Chateaugay  Village,  33  m.;  stage  to  Lower  Chateaugay 
Lake,  (Bellow’s  Hotel,)  8 m.  Total,  61  miles. 

Burlington,  via  Port  Kent. — Steamer,  25  miles. 

Mt.  Mansfield,  via  Port  Kent,  Burlington  and  Waterbury. — Steamer  to 
Burlington,  25  m. ; rail  to  Waterbury,  31  m. ; stage  to  Stowe,  (Mt.  Mansfield 
Hotel,)  10  m.;  stage  and  saddle  horse  to  Summit  House,  7%  m.  Total,  78% 
miles. 

Mt.  Mansfield,  via  St.  Alban’s  Bay  and  Waterbury.— Steamer  to 
St.  Alban’s  Bay,  20  m.;  stage  to  St.  Alban’s  Village,  3 m. ; rail  to  Waterbury. 
47  m. ; stage  to  Stowe,  10  m. ; Summit  House,  7%  m.  Total,  87%  miles. 

Waterbury,  via  Rouse’s  Pt.,  all  rail,  103  miles. 

Alburgh  Springs,  via  Rouse’s  Pt.,  all  rail,  40  miles. 

Alburgh  Springs,  via  St.  Alban’s  Bay. — Steamer  to  St.  Alban’s  Bay,  20  m. ; 
stage  to  Tillage,  3 m. ; rail  to  Alburgh  Springs,  16  m.  Total,  39  miles. 

Alburgh  Springs,  via  North  and  South  Hero,  and  Alburgh  Tongue.— 
Steamer  to  South  Hero.  5 m. ; thence  by  delightful  carriage  drive  25  m.  to 
Alburgh  Springs.  Total,  30  miles. 

Highgate  Springs,  via  St.  Alban’s  Bay.— Steamer  to  St.  Alban’s  Bay,  20  m. ; 
stage  to  village,  3 m. ; rail  to  Highgate  Springs,  13  m.  Total,  36  miles. 

Highgate  Springs,  via  Burlington.— Steamer  to  Burlington,  25  m. ; rail  to 
Highgate  Springs,  46  m.  Total,  71  miles. 

Iodine  Springs,  South  Hero.— Steamer  to  South  Hero,  5 m. ; stage  to  Iodine 
Springs.  3 m.  Total,  8 miles. 

Sheldon  Springs.— Steamer  to  St.  Alban’s  Bay,  20  m.;  stage  to  village,  3 m.; 
rail  to  Sheldon  Springs,  10  m.  Total,  33  miles. 

Massena  Springs,  via  Brasher  Falls.— All  rail  to  Brasher  Falls,  91  m. ; stage 
to  Massena  Springs,  (Hatfield  House,)  9%  m.;  Massena  Village,  (White’s  Hotel,) 
1 m.  Total,  101%  miles. 

Montreal,  by  rail  direct,  63  miles. 

Montreal,  via  Rouse’s  Point.— Steamer  to  Rouse’s  Point,  25  m. ; rail  from 
thence  to  Montreal,  50  m.  Total,  75  miles. 


R.,  W.  & O.  RAILROAD. 

EXCURSION  SEASON  OF  18731 


m,  ini  i oDBanB  mom. 

THE  BEST,  QUICKEST  AND  ONLY  DIRECT  ROUTE  TO 

CLAYTON  AND  ALEXANDRIA  BAY 

AND  THE  SPLENDID  FISHING  GROUNDS  AMONG 

The  Thousand  Islands 

OF  THE  RIVER  ST.  LAWRENCE. 


This  is  the  only  all  Rail  Route  to  the  St.  Lawrence  River  by  which  Tourists 
and  Excursionists  can  have  a view  of  all  of  the  Thousand  Islands  from  the  foot 
of  Lake  Ontario,  and  avoid  the  tedious  and  uncomfortable  lake  trip  from 
Lewiston,  Toronto  and  Oswego.  Also  the  very  unpleasant-  transfer  of  two 
miles  from  the  Grand  Trunk  Railway  Station  at  Kingston  to  the  Steamboat 
Landing  at  a very  unseasonable  hour  in  the  morning. 

“ The  Thousand  Islands  ” of  the  St.  Lawrence  have  long  been  regarded  as 
one  of  the  most  delightful  resorts  for  rest,  healthful  recreation  and  recupera- 
tion anywhere  to  be  found  in  the  country.  The  spacious  and  elegant  hotels 
erected  at  Alexandria  Bay  two  years  since,  together  with  the  increased 
facilities  of  reaching  the  locality  by  railroad  to  Cape  Vincent  and  thence  by 
steamer,  have  attracted  thither  many  thousands  of  visitors  from  every  section 
of  the  country;  and,  judging  from  the  past,  it  seems  to  be  certain  to  prove  a 
, chosen  and  increasingly  popular  place  of  Summer  resort  in  all  future  years. 
Arrangements  are  perfected  to  place  upon  the  line  between  Cape  Vincent  and 
Alexandria  Bay  (calling  at  Clayton)  the  coming  season,  the  new,  spacious  and 


R.,  W.  & 6.  RAILROAD. 

EXCURSION  SEASON  OF  1875 1 


home,  vision  i hu  no. 

THE  BEST,  QUICKEST  AND  ONLY  DIRECT  ROUTE  TO 

CLAYTON  AND  ALEXANDRIA  BAY 

AND  THE  SPLENDID  PISHING  GROUNDS  AMONG 

The  Thousand  Islands 

OP  THE  RIVER  ST.  LAWRENCE. 


This  is  the  only  all  Rail  Route  to  the  St.  Lawrence  River  by  which  Tourists 
and  Excursionists  can  have  a view  of  all  of  the  Thousand  Islands  from  the  foot 
of  Lake  Ontario,  and  avoid  the  tedious  and  uncomfortable  lake  trip  from 
Lewiston,  Toronto  and  Oswego.  Also  the  very  unpleasant-  transfer  of  two 
miles  from  the  Grand  Trunk  Railway  Station  at  Kingston  to  the  Steamboat 
Landing  at  a very  unseasonable  hour  in  the  morning. 

“ The  Thousand  Islands  ” of  the  St.  Lawrence  have  long  been  regarded  as 
one  of  the  most  delightful  resorts  for  rest,  healthful  recreation  and  recupera- 
tion anywhere  to  be  found  in  the  country.  The  spacious  and  elegant  hotels 
erected  at  Alexandria  Bay  two  years  since,  together  with  the  increased 
facilities  of  reaching  the  locality  by  railroad  to  Cape  Vincent  and  thence  by 
steamer,  have  attracted  thither  many  thousands  of  visitors  from  every  section 
of  the  country;  and,  judging  from  the  past,  it  seems  to  be  certain  to  prove  a 
chosen  and  increasingly  popular  place  of  Summer  resort  in  all  future  years. 
Arrangements  are  perfected  to  place  upon  the  line  between  Cape  Vincent  and 
Alexandria  Bay  (calling  at  Clayton)  the  coming  season,  the  new,  spacious  and 


R.,  W.  & O.  RAILROAD. 


fast  steamer,  T.  S.  Faxton,  built  for  and  specially  adapted  to  the  accommoda- 
tion and  comfort  of  pleasure  travel,  which  will  make  two  trips  daily  (Sundays 
excepted)  between  Cape  Vincent  and  Alexandria  Bay,  thus  rendering  the  sail 
exceedingly  pleasant.  Close  connections  will  be  made  with  Express  Trains  of 
this  road  to  and  from  Rome,  Oswego  and  Syracuse,  and  thence  by  the  New 
York  Central  and  other  roads  east,  west  and  south. 

Tourists  and  Pleasure  Seekers  can  leave  New  York  at  6.00  P.  M.,  in  through 
Sleeping  Car  (breakfast  at  Watertown)  and  arrive  at  Clayton  about  10.00  A.  M., 
and  Alexandria  Bay  10.45  A.  M.  Also,  leave  Albany  by  Day  Express  about  9.00 
A.  M.,  in  Drawing-Room  Car,  and  Niagara  Falls  by  Special  Day  Express  at 
7.30  A.  M.,  via  N.  Y.  C.  & H.  R.  R.  R.,  in  Drawing-Room  Car,  arriving  at  Cape 
Vincent  from  Albany,  Saratoga,  Niagara  Falls,  and  intermediate  points,  about 
5.00  P.  M.,  Clayton  6.30  P.  M.,  Alexandria  Bay  7.30  P.  M.,  and  those  who  desire 
can  resume  their  trip  the  following  morning,  on  one  of  the  Royal  Mail  Line  of 
Steamers  through  to  Montreal,  which  leaves  Clayton  about  7.00  A.  M.,  and  Alex- 
andria Bay  8.00  A.  M.,  passing  the  Thousand  Islands  and  Rapids  by  daylight. 

This  Company  offers  to  pleasure  travel,  via  the  St.  Lawrence  River,  advan- 
tages and  comforts  superior  to  any  other  route,  and  by  which  the  Pleasure 
Seeker  can  have  a view  of  all  of  the  Thousand  Islands  and  Rapids  by  day- 
light, and  enjoy  a delightful  sail  of  18  or  30  miles  on  Steamer  Faxton  from 
Cape  Vincent  to  Clayton  and  Alexandria  Bay.  This  Road  is  equipped  with 
new  and  elegant  Day  Coaches  and  Drawing-Room  Cars,  with  the  most  im- 
proved and  best  ear  couplings  and  patent  platforms,  which,  combined  with  its 
Perfect  Track,  enables  the  Company  to  run  all  their  trains  at  a high  rate  of 
speed  with  perfect  safety,  which  fact,  with  the  shortness  of  the  Line,  guaran- 
tees the  arrival  of  passengers  at  their  destination  much  sooner  than  can  be 
attained  over  any  other  Railway. 

Excursion  Tickets  to  Clayton  and  Alexandria  Bay  and  return.  Also, 
Tickets  to  Montreal,  Quebec  and  White  Mountains,  and  Round  Trip  Tickets 
via  Montreal,  Lake  Champlain,  Lake  George  and  Saratoga,  &c.,  &c.,  can  be 
obtained  at  all  the  principal  offices  in  New  York.  Also,  at  Philadelphia,  Pa., 
Albany,  Troy,  Saratoga,  Richfield  Springs,  Utica,  Syracuse,  Rochester,  Buffalo, 
Niagara  Falls,  and  all  the  Principal  Stations  of  the  N.  Y.  0.  & H.  R.  R.  R. 
Pleasure  Seekers  and  Fishing  Parties  will  save  time  and  money  by  securing 
Tickets  by  this  short  and  only  direct  route  to  the  St.  Lawrence  River  and 
Thousand  Islands  via  Cape  Vincent.  Be  sure  your  Tickets  read  via  “ Rome, 
Watertown  & Ogdensburgh  R.  R.”  Baggage  checked  through. 


H.  T.  FRARY, 

Qm'l  Ticket  Agt. 


J.  W.  MOAK, 


R.,  W.  & O.  RAILROAD. 


fast  steamer,  T.  S.  Faxton,  built  for  and  specially  adapted  to  the  accommoda- 
tion and  comfort  of  pleasure  travel,  which  will  make  two  trips  daily  (Sundays 
excepted)  between  Cape  Vincent  and  Alexandria  Bay,  thus  rendering  the  sail 
exceedingly  pleasant.  Close  connections  will  be  made  with  Express  Trains  of 
this  road  to  and  from  Rome,  Oswego  and  Syracuse,  and  thence  by  the  New 
York  Central  and  other  roads  east,  west  and  south. 

Tourists  and  Pleasure  Seekers  can  leave  New  York  at  6.00  P.  M.,  in  through 
Sleeping  Car  (breakfast  at  Watertown)  and  arrive  at  Clayton  about  10.00  A.  M., 
and  Alexandria  Bay  10.45  A.  M.  Also,  leave  Albany  by  Day  Express  about  9.00 
A.  M.,  in  Drawing-Room  Car,  and  Niagara  Falls  by  Special  Day  Express  at 
7.30  A.  M.,  via  N.  Y.  C.  & H.  R.  R.  R.,  in  Drawing-Room  Car,  arriving  at  Cape 
Vincent  from  Albany,  Saratoga,  Niagara  Falls,  and  intermediate  points,  about 
5.00  P.  M.,  Clayton  6.30  P.  M.,  Alexandria  Bay  7.30  P.  M.,  and  those  who  desire 
can  resume  their  trip  the  following  morning,  on  one  of  the  Royal  Mail  Line  of 
Steamers  through  to  Montreal,  which  leaves  Clayton  about  7.00  A.  M.,  and  Alex- 
andria Bay  8.00  A.  M.,  passing  the  Thousand  Islands  and  Rapids  by  daylight. 

This  Company  offers  to  pleasure  travel,  via  the  St.  Lawrence  River,  advan- 
tages and  comforts  superior  to  any  other  route,  and  by  which  the  Pleasure 
Seeker  can  have  a view  of  all  of  the  Thousand  Islands  and  Rapids  by  day- 
light, and  enjoy  a delightful  sail  of  18  or  30  miles  on  Steamer  Faxton  from 
Cape  Vincent  to  Clayton  and  Alexandria  Bay.  This  Road  is  equipped  with 
new  and  elegant  Day  Coaches  and  Drawing-Room  Cars,  with  the  most  im- 
proved and  best  car  couplings  and  patent  platforms,  which,  combined  with  its 
Perfect  Track,  enables  the  Company  to  run  all  their  trains  at  a high  rate  of 
speed  with  perfect  safety,  which  fact,  with  the  shortness  of  the  Line,  guaran- 
tees the  arrival  of  passengers  at  their  destination  much  sooner  than  can  be 
attained  over  any  other  Railway. 

Excursion  Tickets  to  Clayton  and  Alexandria  Bay  and  return.  Also, 
Tickets  to  Montreal,  Quebec  and  White  Mountains,  and  Round  Trip  Tickets 
via  Montreal,  Lake  Champlain,  Lake  George  and  Saratoga,  &c.,  &c.,  can  be 
obtained  at  all  the  principal  offices  in  New  York.  Also,  at  Philadelphia,  Pa., 
Albany,  Troy,  Saratoga,  Richfield  Springs,  Utica,  Syracuse,  Rochester,  Buffalo, 
Niagara  Falls,  and  all  the  Principal  Stations  of  the  N.  Y.  0.  & H.  R.  R.  R. 
Pleasure  Seekers  and  Fishing  Parties  will  save  time  and  money  by  securing 
Tickets  by  this  short  and  only  direct  route  to  the  St.  Lawrence  River  and 
Thousand  Islands  via  Cape  Vincent.  Be  sure  your  Tickets  read  via  “ Rome, 
Watertown  & Ogdensburgh  R.  R.”  Baggage  checked  through. 


H.  T.  FRARY, 

Gm'l  Ticket  Agt . 


J.  W.  MOAK, 

General  Sup't. 


ADDENDA. 


CALIFORNIA! 

The  GREAT  TRANS-CONTINENTAL  ROUTE. 

THE  CHICAGO  and  NORTHWESTERN  RAILWAY 

Embraces,  under  one  management,  the  Great  Trunk  Railway  Lines  of  the 
West  and  North-west,  and,  with  its  numerous  branches  and  connections, 

Forms  the  Shortest  and  Quickest  Route 

Between  Chicago  and  all  points  in  Illinois,  Wisconsin,  Northern  Michigan, 
Minnesota,  Iowa,  Nebraska,  California  and  the  Western  Territories. 

Full  information  in  regard  to  this  Route  will  be  cheerfully  furnished  by  ail 
Ticket  Agents  in  the  United  States  or  Canada. 

All  trains  on  the  Michigan  Central,  Pittsburgh  & Ft.  Wayne,  Lake  Shore  & 
Mich.  Southern,  Baltimore  & Ohio  Railroads  make  connection  with  this  Popular 
Route  for  all  Points  West,  North  and  North-west. 

On  the  arrival  of  the  trains  from  East  or  South,  the  trains  of  the  Chicago 
& Northwestern  Railway  leave  CHICAGQ  as  follows:— 

For  Council  B luffs,  Omaha  and  California—' Two  through  trains 
daily,  with  Pullman  Palace  Drawing-Room  and  Sleeping  Cars  through  to 
Council  Bluffs. 

For  St.  Paul  and  Minneapolis — Two  through  trains  daily,  with  Pull- 
man Palace  Cars  attached  on  both  trains. 

For  Green  Bay  and  Lake  Superior— Two  trains  daily,  with  Pullman 
Palace  Cars  attached  and  running  through  to  Marquette. 

For  Milwaukee— Four  through  trains  daily.  Pullman  Cars  on  night 
trains. 

For  Winona  and.  Points  in  Minnesota— One  through  train  daily. 
For  Dubuque  via.  Freeport— Two  through  trains  daily,  with  Pullman 
Cars  on  night  train. 

For  Dubuque  and  LaCrosse,  via.  Clinton — Two  through  trains  daily, 
with  Pullman  Cars  on  night  train. 

For  Sioux  City  and  Yankton— Two  trains  daily.  Pullman  Cars  to 
Missouri  Yalley  Junction. 

For  Lake  Geneva — Four  trayis  daily. 

For  Rockford,  Sterling,  Kenosha,  Janesville  and  other  Points 
you  can  have  from  two  to  ten  trains  daily. 

Pullman’s  Palace  Sleeping  Cars  are  run  over  the  Chicago  and  Northwestern 
Railway  Company’s  Lines  between  Chicago  and  Omaha,  Cedar  Rapids,  Du- 
buque, Freeport,  Milwaukee,  St.  Paul,  Fon  du  Lac,  Green  Bay  and  Marquette. 
They  connect  at  Omaha  with  Through  Sleeping  Cars  for  San  Francisco. 

This  popular  Route  is  unsurpassed  for  speed,  comfort  and  safety.  The 
smooth,  well-ballasted  and  perfect  Tract  of  Steel  Rails,  the  Celebrated  Pull- 
man Palace  Sleeping  Cars,  the  perfect  Telegraph  System  of  moving  Trains, 
the  regularity  with  which  they  run,  the  admirable  arrangement  for  run- 
ning Through  Cars  from  Chicago  to  all  Points  West,  North  and  North-west, 
secures  to  passengers  all  the  Comforts  in  Modern  Railway  Traveling. 

If  you  wish  the  Best  Traveling  Accommodations,  you  will  buy  your  Tickets 
by  this  Route,  and  will  take  no  other.  For  rates  or  information  not  attainable 
from  your  Home  Ticket  Agents,  apply  to 

MARVIN  HUGHITT,  W.  H.  STENNETT, 

General  Superintendent,  Gen'l  Passenger  Agent , 

CHICAGO.  CHICAGO. 


ADDENDA. 


H.  B.  H A.LL, 

Dealer  in  every  Description  of 

I (libber  Rootls  nS'etl  by  EpoftSniei|. 

RLTBBER  COATS.  CAPS,  LEGGINS,  PANTS,  OVERALLS,  ARMY  BLANKETS, 
TENT  PONCHOS,  GUN  COVERS,  POCKET  DRINKING  CUPS,  CORK- 
SCREWS, FLASKS,  and  the  NEW  POCKET  FILTER.  RUBBER 
BOOTS,  long  or  short,  light  or  heavy,  made  to  order  of  supe- 
rior Stock  and  wakkautid  not  to  crack.  Air  Pillows  and  Cushions. 

47  East  Genesee  Street,  - - Syracuse.  N.  Y. 

NATURE _AND  ART  ! 

DMIRERS  of  the  fascinating  beauty  of  the  Adirondacks  will  greatly  appre- 
ciate the  represent  ation  on  canvas  of  the  enchanting  scenery  oi  that  region. 
All  the  paintings  of  this  kind,  as  well  as  of  other  subjects,  hitherto  produced 
upon  the  easel  of  that  promising  young  artist,  Levi  W.  Pretice,  evince  not 
only  a high  order  of  talent,  but  a fidelity  to  nature  and  the  subject  really 
R®F]  remarkable.  Mr.  P.  has  made  that  romantic  region  a careful  study,  and  the 
I charming  productions  of  his  pencil  are  not  imaginary  pictures,  but  faithful 
copies  of  scenes  he  has  witnessed.  A visit  to  his  studio,  (16  Johnson  St.,  Syracuse,) 
and  an  hour  passed  in  an  examination  of  his  collection,  will  prove  a matter  of  rich 
enjoyment  to  any  lover  of  the  beautiful.— [Ed. 


FOREST  HOUSE  ! 

At  Stark’s  Falls,  Foot  of  the  Bog. 

This  famous  Sportsmen’s  Resort  is  loca- 
ted in  the  midst  of  the  wild  and  beautiful 
scenery,  of  the  Adirondacks  and  in  the  im- 
mediate vicinity  of  unequaled  sporting 
ground.  Boats  and  experienced  Guides 
furnished  at  reasonable  rates.  Concord 
Coaches  run  daily  from  Potsdam  to  this 
House.  Fare  $2.u0.  Board  $2.00  per  day ; 
$7  00  per  week.  Tables  always  well  sup- 
plied. For  fuither  particulars  address  the 
proprietors,  > NORTON  & SNELL, 

P.  O.  South  Colton,  St. Lawrence  Co.,N.Y. 


Portable  Camp  Stove. 

This  most  valuable  invention  is  exceed- 
ingly useful  in  camping  out,  in  fishing  or 
hunting  excursions.  It  weighs  only  10  or 
12  pounds,  packs  closely  and  can  be  lashed 
to  the  knapsack,  or  otherwise.  It  is  the 
neatest  arrangement  for  sportsmen  ever 
invented,  for  it  will  not  only  heat  their 
tents,  but  will  boil,  broil  or  stew,  and  for 
a large  party.  Price,  $5.00.  Shipped  to  any 
point  on  receipt  of  price  by 

UNION  CO., 
Syracuse,  N.  Y- 


Map  of  the  Adirondack  Wilderness, 

— BY — 


W.  W.  ELY,  M.  D.  * 


PRICE,  - 75  Cents. 

SAME  NICELY  BOUND  IN 

“Pocket”  Style,  - $1.25^ 

Mailed  free  on  receipt  of  price  by 

WAVERLEY  PUBLISHING  CO.,  Syracuse,  N.  Y. 


ADDENDA. 


Lefever  Breech.  Loaders  ! 

DOUBLE  AND  SINGLE 

Shot-Guns  and  Rifles 

These,  Guns  are  admitted  to 
have  the  strongest  fastening, 

the  BEST  ACTION  AND  SHOOTING  • 

QUALITIES  EVER  MADE.  MuZZle  . 

Loaders  altered  to  Breech  Load- ! 
ers,  making  as  strong  and  good 

a Gun  as  a new  Breeeh  Loader.  Write  for  Catalogue  and  full  description  to 

L-  BARBER  & CO.,  51  Clinton  Street,  Syracuse,  N.  Y. 

6ms,  Pistols.  Revolvers,  Rifles. 

Fishing  Tackle,  Base  Ball  Sup- 
plies, and  all  SPORTING 
APPAR  AT  US,  Wholesale 
and  Retail. 

Q3T“ A good  Double-Barrel,  Central 
Fire,  Breech-Loading  Gun  sent  to 
any  address  for  $40. 

Every  Gnn  Warranted  ! 

Ammunition  of  the  very  best 
QUALITY  A SPECIALTY. 

w.  rt.  BARNUM, 

18  East  Genesee  St., 
(UpStairs,)  Syracuse,  N.  Y. 

74  South  Salina  street, 
SYRACUSE,  N.  Y., 


REUBEN  WOOD, 


WHOLESALE  AND  RETAIL  DEALER  IN 


Dishing  Tackle  of  Every  Description  ! 

Dr.  Fowler’s  Bamboo  Rod— the  best  in  the  World,  (guaranty  given ;)  also  Bass 
and  Trout  Flies.  Orders  solicited  and  promptly  attended  to. 

MASSACHUSETTS  ARMS  GO. 


Maynard’s  Pidesii  Breech-Loading  Kifles  and  Shot  Guns. 
Central  Fir#*  Ueloading  Capped  Cartridges.  Interchange- 
able i'omhinaiinn  Anns.  For  convenience,  accuracy 
and  penetration,  unequalled. 


MAYNARD’S 
RIFLES  A XI)  SHOT  GIJXS. 

Reloading-Capped  Cartridges. 
Send  for  Illustrated  Circular. 

MASSACHUSETTS  ARMS  COMPASTj 

CHICOPEE  FAILS,  MASS. 


ADDENDA. 


SPORTSMEN  SMOKE  VANITY  PAIR ! 

Cut  Cavendish,  made  from  finest  stock,  particularly  for  Meer- 
schauni  and  Cigarette  smoking-Doassror  bite  the  tongue.  Unlike 
any  other  Tobacco.  Warranted  pure  and  innoxious.  Highest 

awaid,  Vienna,  1873.  Vienna,  Austria,  November  30,  1873. 

Your  Respectful  Servaut,^  ^ -/°? . HYBTLj^  ofY,enua. 

° Rochester,  February  12,  1875.  * 

years,  and  know  them  all  to  be  flrst-ela|S.^ ofN.  y.  state  Fisheries. 

Smet  Betog  in  slS  of  a Tobacco  that  would  not  are  the  tongne  and  JS’S'AT” '■ 
made  acquainted  with  your  “Vanity  Fair,  and  found  it to  be  1 nb  J^se^on  1 
natural  leaf. 

Liberal  samples  by  mail  on  receipt  of  money. 

WM.  S.  KIMBALL  & CO.,  Manufacturers, 
Peerless  Tobacco  Works,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 
b^~send  for  circular.  __ __ 


AND  PLEASURE  GROUNDS,  AT 

Richland,  Oswego  Go.,  Iff.  Y. 

w.  R>-  FIELD,  IPropiretor. 


Trout  Spawn,  Young  Trout  ana  Table  Trout  in  their  Season. 

Reading  Room  connected  with  the  Office.  Exhibition  Tanks  and  Show  Ponds. 

BOATS  AND  TACKLE  FOR  ANGLERS. 

Orders  for  Trout  for  the  Table  and  for  Stocking  Ponds  solicited. 

PIC  NIC  GROVES, 

Nicely  fitted  up  on  the  banks  of  the  Lake,  To  Let.  Charges  Reasonable. 

two  Hotels  near.  Depot  60  rods  distant.  Sleeping  Cars  to  and  from 
New  York,— time,  11  hours. 

EXCELLENT  WATER  POWER  TO  LEASE  ! 

U.  B. The  Proprietor  wouid  sell  a half-interest  in  the  above  farm  (54  acres) 

and  business  to  a desirable  party. 


ADDENDA. 


GRAVES  BROS  , 

BOONVILLE,  N.  Y., 

Clothing;  Hats,  Caps  & Furnishing  Goods 

(Next  Dook  to  Hurlburt  Hotjsk.) 
Guides  Clothing  and  Suits  for  the  Woods  a 
specialty.  The  highest  price  paid  for  Furs. 
Trappers  or  buyers  can  send  us  their  Fur, 
stating  the  lowest  price  they  will  sell  it 
for,  and'  we  will  remit  to  them  or  return 
the  same,  paying  all  express  charges,  or 
sell  the  Fur  on  commission. 

CALVIN  V.  GRAVES.  BYRON  P.  GRAVES. 


Cranberry  Lake  Hotel ! 

This  new  and  attractive  “ Sportsman’s 
Home  ” is  beautifully  situated  on  the 
shore  of  Cranberry  Lake  and  within  a few 
rods  of  Silver  Lake,  which  it  delightfully 
overlooks.  No  finer  fishing  and  hunting 
grounds  are  to  be  found  in  tne  Adirondack 
Wilderness.  It  is  a very  desirable  resort 
for  sportsmen  or  Summer  boarders.  Boats, 
guides  and  every  requisite  for  camp  life 
furnished  on  application.  Board,  40  cents 
per  meal ; $1.00  per  day ; $5.00  per  week. 
Capacity,  60.  RICHARD  THOMAS, 
Clarksboro  P.  O.,  St.  Lawrence  Co.,N.Y. 


o- 


GEO.  A.  MAY,  Proprietor. 

This  popular  Hotel— well  and  favorably 
known  to  the  traveling  public  for  the  past 
forty  years— is  situated  in  the  pleasant 

Village  of  Boonville,  N.  Y., 

which  is  a favorite  Gateway  to  the  Great 
Wilderness.  It  combines  all  the  advant- 
ages of  a first  class  Hotel,  and  facilities  for 
enjoying  rare  sport  in  the  neighboring 
streams  and  lakes.  The  tables  are  ladenea 
with  all  the  delicacies  of  the  season.  Car- 
riages and  drivers  always  in  readiness  to 
convey  tourists  to  any  of  the  numerous 
fishing  or  hunting  grounds  with  which 
this  region  abounds.  Railroad  and  tele- 
graph communication  with  all  parts  of  the 
country.  Parties  desiring  to  make  ar- 
rangements for  a journey  to  the  woods 
from  this  point,  will  address  as  above  for 
particulars. 


StoWftes  I 


First-Class  Teams  to  Let ! 

Horses  and  Carriages  Furnished 
on  the  most  reasonable  terms. 

Stable  and  Office  in  P.  Clark’s  New 
Brick  Block, 

Mill  Street,  Malone,  N.  Y. 

Chisholm  & Tobey,  Proprietors. 


SattesuB  H®us«  I 

POTSDAM,  1ST.  -ST. 

This  Hotel,  so  long  the  favorite  on  this  line 
of  travel,  has  been  recently  enlarged  and 
thoroughly  renovated  throughout,  and 
now  offers  the  most  attractive  accommo- 
dations to  tourists  or  “ Commercial  Trav- 
elers.” Board  $2.00  per  day ; $9.00  per 
week.  Stages  leave  this  House  daily  for 
the  iamous  sporting  resort— Stark’s  Falls, 
i very  attention  paid  to  those  favoring  us 
with  a call. 

MATTESON  & CO.,  Props. 


JSfew  ©ftit*  j^tofe  ! 

NOEL  J.  HUNT, 

Druggist  and  Apothecary, 

And  Dealer  in  all  kinds  of 

FISHING  TACKLE, 

KING'S  BlOQK,  - - MAtOKK,  N.  Y. 


Tourists  to  the  Adirondacks  and 
Everybody  Needing 


Boots  Shoes  and  Rulers, 

May  have  their  wants  supplied  by 
calling  at 

Hall’s  Old  Established  Stand ! 


BEST  GOODS;  LOWEST  PRICES. 

Keeseville,  1ST.  IT- 


Double-Barreled  Riflesj 

Shot  Guns,  Copper  Cartridges.  Powder, 
Shot,  Caps  and  Lead,  for  Sale  by 

M.  MOSES,  - Gunsmith, 

No.  2 Parmelee  Street, 

MALONE,  IV.  Y. 

B^”Guns  made  to  order,  and  Repairing 
neatly  and  promptly  done. 


ADDENDA. 


,HE  JUNCTION  HOUSE  at  Mooers  is 
at  the  junction  ot  the  Rouse's  Point  & 
Ogdensburgh  and  New  York  & Can- 
ada Railroads,  in  the  direct  line  of 
travel  from  the  N.  W.  and  Montreal  to 
Plattsburgh,  trie  principal  Gateway  and 
easiest  route  to  the  Great  Wilderness,  and 
noted  as  the  place  “ where  in  au  unpre- 
tentious little  iiouse  can  be  procured  a 
dinner  hardly  surpassed  by  any  hotel 
in  the  country.”  Good  hunting  and 
hshing  near  by.  Special  attention  given 
to  Commercial  Travelers.  Horses  and 
Carriages  furnished  when  desired.  Terms 
$2.00  per  day.  Meals  ready  on  the  arrival 
of  connecting  trains. 

HENRY  W.  LAWRENCE, 
Mooers,  N.  Y. 


leaclaia  Late  lease 

11 1 A©  (MM)  |L,AK£t  N.  Y. 

A,  R.  FULLER,  Proprietor. 

P.  O.  MALONE,  N.  Y. 


Good  Fishing  and  Hunting.  Nearest 
point  by  rail— Malone,  N.  Y. 

Terms— $2.00  per  day  or  $10.50  per  week. 


WILLIAM.  H.  WEBER, 


— DEALER  IK— 


Whtdlje^,  Clodk^, 

Jewelry,  Silver  & Plated  Ware,  Toys,  &c. 
Matthews’  Bloch , Keeseville , N.  T. 

£??  Repairing  of  every  description,  to 
which  he  gives  his  personal  attention, 
neatly  and  promptly  done.  Satisfaction 
guaranteed. 


• j 


Dim 

SCHROON  LAKE,  ESSEX  00.,  N.  Y. 

pt  ?taSlPrOT‘hMdSPThrM11Zu Sd  f 

S5S£^SS%5S 

RaSU?„raSntoLftve^dlf  t Efs‘b>  Adirondack 

road;  thence  to  Riverside  and  as  above  Thurman  Statlon’  Adirondack  Rail- 

Jtxxv^r  w?a- 

arrive  at  New  Vnrir  of  fi-an  r>  ivr  heturung,  leave  Schroon  Lake  at  7 A M 
fnTew  Yorklt  6 i M S^me  dar5  leave  Schroon  Lake  at  12  M..  arrive 

meet,  passengers  at  the  Wharf,  * Carriages  for  this  Hotel  wij] 

respe<^fu^ly^soUeR«  an^will  en^ea^reto^eriTR8^co^mua^nce^n<^aWa  ^ouse 

JOHN  D.  BURWELL,  Proprietor. 


SPEAR  BRO«., 

popular  prifiRS  m rums, 

■ Bags,  &c.  Furs 
made  to  order  and  repaired  on  short  no- 
tice. Cash  paid  for  Raw  Furs. 

E.  HATHAWAY  & SON, 

CLOtBMEMSi 

59  MARGARET  STREET, 

PI.ATT8BURGH,  XV.  T„ 

Have  a full  line  of  FURNISHING  GOODS. 
RUBBER  BLANKETS,  CLOTHING,  &c. 

HSF”  TENTS  for  Sale  or  to  Rent  on 
Reasonable  Terms. 

GEO.  N.  WEBB  & SON, 

PlnmUers,  Steam  ^ Gas  Fitters, 

General  Contractors  and  Jobbers,  Tin 
Plate,  Sheet  Iron  and  Copper  Workers, 
and  dealers  in  Stoves,  Furnaces,  Gas 
Fixtures,  Pumps,  Lead  and  Iron 
Pipe,  Kitchen  Furnishing  Goods,  &c. 
|2P”  Parties  Fitted  Out  for  the  Woods 
with  Cooking  Utensils  of  every  variety. 

Marshall’s  Block , J Vo.  17  Bridge  St. 
PLATTSBURGH,  V.  Y. 

LIVERY, 

Sale  aid  Boarding;  Stable, 

STAVE  & RANSOM, 

River  St.  opp.  Court  House  , Plattsburgh,  N.  Y. 

HP”  Parties  wishing  Conveyances  for  the 
Ausahle  Chasm  and  the  Adirondacks  will 
find  it  to  their  advantage  to  engage  here. 

The  best  Turnouts  furnished  on  Reason- 
able Terms. 

W.  P.  MYERS  & CO., 

Offer  to  Sportsmen  and  Tourists  a Full 
Assortment  of 

D.  B.  JOHNSON.  O.  W.  M.  JOHNSON. 

0.  B JOHNSON  & SON, 

Haas*  AmmaiilfB 

AND  FISHING  TACKLE,  embracing  all 
that  is  requisite  for  fishing  in  Lake  Cham- 
plain or  sporting  in  the  Adirondack  Wil- 
derness. General  Hardware  Dealers. 

No.  i Bridge  and  No.  1 Water  Streets, 
PLATTSBURGH,  N.  Y. 

Lawyers  aid  Surveyors, 

Low’s  Block,  Brinkerhoof  St.,  Opp.  P.  0., 

Plattsburgh,  N.  Y. 

SEP”  We  have  original  Maps  and  Ifield 
Notes  of  Clinton  County.  All  business 
promptly  attended  to. 

JOHN  McCADDEN, 

—DEALER  IN— 

CANNED  FRUITS! 

TEAS,  COFFEES,  SPICES,  MEATS, 
Pickles,  Sauces,  Jellies,  Preserves, 
Corn,  Tomatoes,  Vegetables,  &c.,  x 

And  Choice  Family  Groceries, 

No.  8 BRIDGE  ST.,  CORNER  WATER, 
PLATTSBURGH,  N.  Y. 

CLINTON  I0IJSE, 

DABIlVEMORA3  IV.  V. 

Brooks  & Roberts,  Proprietors. 

This  Hotel— recently  enlarged  and  impro- 
ved-will be  found  a most  pleasant  resting 
place  for  parties  en  route  to  ChazyLake. 
Good  hunting  and  fishing  in  the  vicinity. 
The  table  is  always  furnished  with  trout 
and  game  in  the  season.  A daily  line  of 
Coaches,  owned  by  this  Hotel,  affords 
pleasant  transportation  between  Platts- 
burgh, Dannemora  and  Redford.  Private 
conveyances  from  Redford  to  Hunter’s 
Home,  &c.,  at  reasonable  rates. 

paps 

ADDENDA. 


JEi  HC  O O F 3L."$r  ! 

F.  It*.  DANIS,  Prop,  JL>ri*s*;s»*i«t, 

3ST.  Y- 

gs^°»  Sent  C.  0.  D.  to  any  part  of  the  United  States  or  Canada. 

SARANAC  AND  ST.  REGIS  LAKES. 


f . Miller's  Line  of  Four-Horse  Hail  Coaches 

Will  leave  Ausable  Station  (Point  of  Rocks)  daily  on  the  arrival  of 
the  Morning  Train,  for  Martin’s,  Paul  Smith  s,  Prospect  House  and 
Bartlett’s  Returning,  leave  Saranac  Lakes  at  7 A.  M.,  and  connect- 
SSL  at  Ausable  Station  at  4*  P.  M.  He  has  also  extra  Carriages 
and  Horses  at  all  times  at  Saranac  Lakes  to  convey  passengers  by 
any  of  the  other  Routes  desired,  and  to  all  points  of  interest  that  cta 
be  reached  by  Carriage  in  that  section.  This  is  the  only  Line  ot 
Mail  Stages  on  this  Route;— is  a Daily  Line  throughout  the  year. 

ENSINE  MILLER, 

Saranac  Lake,  Franklin  Co.,  N.  Y. 


JAMES  M.  WARMER  Procrieter. 

Situated  on  high,  dry  ground  on  the  Divide  between  the  head 
waters  of  the  North  Branch  of  the  Saranac  and  the  East  Branch  of 
the  St.  Regis;— water  running  both  ways  within  sixty  rods  of  the 
House  The  House  is  enterely  new  (the  old  one  having  been  burnt 
February  13th,  1874,)  and  built  with  regard  to  the  accomi modation  of 
Sportsmen  and  Pleasure  Seekers.  Running  water  in  the  House  and 
a Fountain  in  the  Garden.  Double  Piazza  on  .three  ®d* 

House  and  all  the  appointments  complete.  Boats,  Guides,  Tents  and 
Camp  Eauipage,  furnished  on  application.  , 

Mrs  Wardner  is  an  experienced  Taxidermist,  and  parties  car.  have 
their  game  mounted  with  skill  and  dispatch,  and  so  save  many 
specimens  that  it  would  be  impossible  to  send  to  the  city  during  the 

hot  weather  in  good  condition.  . , Ariirnn 

4 The  Proprietor  has  had  twenty  years  experience  m the  Adiron- 
dacks,  and  believes  he  knows  what  parties  need. 

HOARD  SI. 50  PER  DAY.  SPECIAL  RATES  TO  FAMI* 
LIES  STAYING  ALL  THE  SEASON. 

P.  O.  ADDRESS,  BLOOMiNoDALE,  ESSEX  CO.,  N.  IT. 


ADDENDA. 


tanaslSU^skk 


Stage  leaves  Keeseville  at  6:30  A.  M. 
daily,  Sundays  excepted;  Ausable  Station 
on  Tuesdays,  Thursdays  and  Saturdays  at 
8:45  A.  M. 

Returning,  leave  Martin’s  and  Paul 
Smith’s  Mondays,  Wednesdays  and  Fridays 
lor  Ausahle  Station,  to  connect  with  the 
Train  at  5 P.  M.,  also  with  Stage  for  Port 
Kert,  which  connects  with  the  Boat  going 
South. 

Daily  Stage  to  Peru;  also,  every  Even- 
ing from  Port  Kent  to  A usable  Forks  on 
arrival  of  Boat  from  South. 

Private  Conveyances  furnished,  if  de- 
sired, to  Ausahle  Chasm  and  elsewhere. 

HEP”  -Teams  always  on  hand  to  convey 
passengers  to  the  Saeanac  and  St.  Regis 
Lakes  ; secured  by  letter  or  telegraph,  and 
on  terms  that  will  De  perfectly  satisfactory. 

WILLIAM  HARPER, 

Keeseville,  N.  Y. 


11.  II.  FUJL.JLEK, 


Stage,  Livery  ||  Freight, 

Stages  meet  all  Boats  at  Port  Kent  for 
Keeseville  and  the  Adirondacks  ; also,  at 
Peru  for  Keeseville.  At  close  of  naviga- 
tion Stages  run  between  Keeseville,  Burl- 
ington and  Port  Henry.  Good  Turnouts  for 
Ausable  Chasm  and  other  drives.  Freight 
teams  run  in  connection  with  Stages.  Or- 
ders by  telegram  or  letter  will  receive 
prompt  attention.  Business  doae  prompt- 
ly'. Careful  drivers. 

Office  at  Adirondack  House,  Keeseville,  N.  Y. 


V#lt£T  ’HOUSE  ! 

H.  H.  SHE RBLTRN,  Proprietor, 

E LIZABETHTOWN,  UST.-ST. 

This  most  popular  Hotel  has  been  recently 
rebuilt,  many  elegant  suits  of  rooms  add- 
ed, newly  furnished  throughout,  and  is 
now  replete  with  all  the  modern  improve- 
ments. The  dimensions* are  lOu  ft.  fronting 
the  Lawn  and  River,  and  75  ft.  facing  the 
road.  It  is  three  stories  in  height  and 
covered  with  a French  roof,  surmounted  by 
an  observatory  from  which  may  be  enjoy- 
ed magnificent  views  of  the  surrounding 
country.  The  tables  are  provided  with 
the  choicest  dishes,  and  no  pains  are  spared 
to  maintain  the  ancient  reputation  of  this 
House.  Every  attention  will  be  paid  to 
the  comfort  and  convenience  of  Guests. 

dSF’A  first-glass  Livery  is  kept  in  con- 
nection with  this  Hotel.  Terms  given  on 
application. 


UPPER  ADIRONDACK 

IROM  WORKS! 

Tourists  to  the  Adirondacks— visiting 
this  romantic  and  picturesque  locality- 
will  be  provided  with  good  accommoda- 
tions and  excellent  fare  at  the  boarding 
house  of  the  undersigned. 

Mrs.  Moore  will  accompany  ladies  on 
their  mountain  excursions  when  desired, 
and  Mr.  Moore  will  render  every  assis- 
tance necessary  to  those  sojourning  at  his 
place. 

Teems  foe  Boaed.— $1.50  per  day  ; $8.00 
per  week. 

Address,  JOHN  MOORE, 

Newcomb,  Essex  Co.,  N.  Y. 


N.  C.  BOYNTON, 

KEESEVILLE,  N.  Y., 


— DEALEE  IN— 


PROVISIONS, 


CANNED  GOODS,  &c., 

B3F”  Sportsmen’s  Supplies,  of  the  best 
brands,  in  great  variety. 


Eiglteen  Years  In  tie  AdironiMs. 


Hathorn’s  Summer  Sporting  Camps  at 
Blue  Mountain  and  Raquette  Lake.  For 
Guides,  Boats,  Board,  &c.,  address. 


CHA I VCEY  HATIIORN. 

Indian  Lake  P.  O.,  Hamilton  Co.,  N.Y. 


ADDENDA. 


£8? 


WINCHESTER  repeating 

MODEL  1873. 


Ilflill 


This  gun  is  now  the  leading  Sporting  Rifle  in  the  country  and  is 
pre-eminently  adapted  to  all  the  wants  of  the  hunter,  or  marksman, 
amateur,  or  professional. 


Its  leading  qualities  are  lightness,  combined  with  strength  and 
durability,  efficiency,  accuracy  and  unparalleled  rapidity  of  fire. 

The  following  is  from  the  pen  of  a gentleman  perhaps  me  best 
known  of  all  the  frequenters  of  the  Adirondacks: — 

Rochester,  N.  Y. 

“ It  gives  me  pleasure  to  express  my  favorable  opinion  of  the  new  Winchester 
Rifle.  I have  had  occasion  to  use  different  guns  in  the  Adirondacks  during  the 
.ast  fifteen  years,  and  the  opportunity  has  been  afforded  of  examining  a great 
variety  of  breech-loading  rifles  in  the  possession  of  sportsmen. 

Of  all  that  I have  seen  or  tried,  the  Winchester  Rifle,  Model  1873,  with  the 
center-fire  cartridge,  has  my  decided  preference.  The  perfection  of  its 
mechanism,  the  durability  of  all  its  parts,  and  its  practical  excellence  as  a 
fire-arm,  render  it,  in  my  opinion,  all  that  can  be  desired  in  a sporting  rifle. 

W.  W.  ELY,  M.  D.” 

BRIEF  EXPRESSIONS  FROM  ALL  PARTS  OF  THE  COUNTRY. 

'■AU  that  is  claimed  for  it." 

The  hunter's  true  companion." 

“ The  Ne  Plus  Ultra  Sporting  Gun." 

Extremely  accurate;  cannot  be  better." 

“For  rapidity  cannot  be  approached." 

“ Undoubtedly  the  finest  gun  in  the  world." 

“ A hard  shooter , center  shooter  and  beautiful  gun." 

“ The  best  Repeating  Rifle , now  made , in  the  world." 

“ The  best  rifle  now  in  use  for  Minting  and  sporting ." 

“I  am  satisfied  that  the  gun  is  the  perfection  of  fire-arms." 

“ Will  hill  deer  as  far  as  a man  can  cover  it  with  open  sights ." 

“Is  sure  fire  and  its  hilling  qualities  all  that  can  be  desired." 

“In  competition  with  guns  of  other  mahers  has  given  perfect  satisfaction." 

“ The  most  perfect  of  all  breech-load&rs  for  all  practical  and  sporting  purposes .” 

For  illustrated  pamphlet  and  price  list,  address 

WINCHESTER  REPEATING  ARMS  CO., 

NEW  HAVEN,  CONN. 


ADDENDA. 


A Weekly  Journal  of  Sixteen  Pages, 


DEVOTED  TO 

FIELD  SPORTS, 

PRACTICAL  NATURAL  HISTORY,  FISH  CUL- 
TURE, PROTECTION  OF  GAME,  PRESER- 
VATION OF  FORESTS,  YACHTING,  BOAT- 
ING, AND  ALL 


IT  IS  THE  OFFICIAL  ORGAN  OF 


THE  AMERICAN  FISH  CULTURISTS5  ASSOCIATION. 

It  is  the  only  Journal  in  this  Country  that  fully  supplies 
the  wants  and  meets  the  necessities  of  the 

GENTLEMAN  SPORTSMAN. 

TERMS— $5.00  A YEAR. 

SEN3D  FOR  A SPECIMEN  COPY. 

FOREST  & STREAM  PUBLISHIN&  CO., 

17  Chatham  Street,  [City  Hall  Square,] 
NEW  YORK. 

Post  Office  Box  2S33. 


ADDENDA. 


DEDICATED  TO 


WILBUR  F,  PARKER,  Proprietor  and  Editor, 


liiffiiiii  lit  iiiiiii 

AND  FIELD  SPOET  AETICLES 

By  the  First  Scientists  and  Sportsmen  of  America. 

n i c u . 

$1.00,  3 Months.  $2.00,  6 Months.  $4.00,  Yearly. 
Send  for  Specimen  Copy,  to 

THE  ROD  AND  GUN, 


West  Meriden,  Conn. 


ADDENDA. 


RELIABLE  and  INVALUABLE! 


NOT  EXCELLED  AS  ADVERTISING  MEDIUMS. 


Containing  Maps  and  Time  Tables  of  all  Railways  in  Canada,  principal 
Railroads  in  the  United  States  and  Inland  Steam  Navigation  Routes, 
together  with  General  Railway  Information,  Railway  Traffic  returns 
and  miscellaneous  reading  interesting  to  the  traveller.  Carefully 
compiled  from  official  sources  and  published  semi-monthly. 

PRICE,  _____  30  CENTS. 


CHISHOLM’S 


OF  THE 


st.  ifkwfttnct  ftivtipj 

Also  giving  a full  Description  of  the  Hudson  River,  Niagara  Palls,  Lake 
Superior,  Thousand  Islands,  Ottawa,  Montreal,  Quebec,  The  River 
Saguenay,  White  Mountains,  and  Lake  Champlain,  with  a splendid 
Panoramic  Map  of  the  St.  Lawrence.  These  two  Publications  are 
for  sale  by  all  News  Dealers  and  Booksellers;  also  by  all  News 
Agents  on  Trains  and  Steamers,  and  all  the  Principal  Rail- 
way Depots  throughout  Canada  and  the  adjoining  States. 

Price,  Cloth,  - - $1.00.  | Paper,  - - 75  Cents. 

These  two  Publications  are  published  by 

C.  It.  CHISHOLM  & BROS., 

No.  162  St.  James  Street,  Montreal, 

Publishers,  Booksellers,  and  General  Agents  on  the  following  Railway  and 
. Steamboat  Lines: — 

Railways. — Canada  Southern,  Eastern,  (Mass.,)  European  and  North 
American,  Grand  Trunk,  Intercolonial,  Maine  Central,  Midland,  Portland  & 
Ogdensburg,  Portland  & Rochester,  South  Eastern,  Toronto,  Grey  & Bruce, 
Toronto  & Nipissing,  Part  of  Vermont  Central. 

Steamboat  Klines. — Canadian  Navigation  Company,  Ottawa  River 
Navigation  Company,  St.  Lawrence  & Saguenay  Steamboat  Company,  Richelieu 
Navigation  Company,  Union  Steamboat  Company, 

Branches  at  Boston,  Mass.;  Portland,  Me.;  Detroit,  Mich.;  Toronto, 
Ont.;  St.  John,  N.  B. 


v 


ADDENDA. 


AMEBICAN  TBAYEL  MADE  EASY. 


THE  BEST  AT  THE  LOWEST  PRICE. 

Ready,  about  May  10th. 

Mjrfd’s  Slerl-Trij  Me  it  America, 

SEW  MID  COMPLETELT  REVISED  EDITION  FOR  18T5, 

WITH  MANY  CORRECTIONS  AND  ADDITIONS. 

LM!][,  all  America,  including  Canada,  in  a Nutshell. 

Handsome  i6mo.,  Blue  Flexible  Covers,  Gilt, 

PRIGE  REDUCED  TO  $1.00. 


SEND  EARLY  ORDERS  TO 

J.  B.  LIPPINCOTT  & 00.,  Philadelphia ; 

And  all  Booksellers  in  the  United  States  and  Canada. 


NOW  READY  : 

fflOEFORD’S  SHORT-TRIP  GUIDE  TO  EUROPE 

new  and  completely  revised  edition  for  1875.  9 

Handsome  1 6mo.,  Green  Flexible  Covers , Gilt, 

PRICE  REDUCED  TO  $1.50. 

& DILLINGHAM, 

LEE  & SHEPARD,  Boston.  6j&  Br0adway>  York'. 


ADDENDA. 


1H.  SARATOGA  SPRINGS,  N.  Y.  18)5. 


THE  CONGRESS  AND  EMPIRE 


SPRING  WATERS 

ARE  THE  BEST  ANTI-BILIOUS  REMEDIES  KNOWN . 

They  are  purely  natural  mineral  waters,  cathartic,  alterative 
an*d  slightly  stimulating  and  tonic  in  their  effects,  without  pro- 
ducing the  debility  that  usually  attends  a course  of  medicines. 

They  are  used  with  marked  success  in  Affections  of  the 
Liver  and  Kidneys ; and  for  Dyspepsia,  Gout,  Chronic  Con- 
stipation and  Cutaneous  Diseases  they  are  unrivaled. 

They  are  especially  beneficial  as  general  preservatives  of 
the  tone  of  the  stomach  and  purity  of  the  blood,  and  are 
powerful  preventives  of  Fevers  and  Bilious  Complaints. 

These  waters  should  be_  taken  in  the  morning  before  break 
fast — one  pint  being  the  usual  draught — and  their  use  may 
be  continued  daily  for  months,  with  the  most  agreeable 
results,  and  without  reaction,  or  any  necessity  of  increasing 
the  quantity  taken. 

Congress  Water,  being  the  most  popular  of  the  Saratoga 
waters , is  largely  counterfeited.  Every  genuine  bottle  has 
the  letter  “ C,5'  with  the  name  of  the  undersigned  Proprietors, 
and  the  words  Congress  Water,  raised  upon  the  glass. 
The  name  is  also  branded  unon  the  corks  and  boxes. 

Genuine  Empire  Water  may  be  distinguished  by  similar 
marks,  the  letter  “ E,"  and  the  words  Empire  Water,  being 
substituted  for  those  above  named. 

Purchasers  desiring  the  genuine  waters  of  these  Springs 
should  require  these  marks. 


»NONE  GENUINE  SOLD  ON  DRAUGHT. 

Orders  by  mail  receive  prompt  attention.  Address, 

Congress  & E mpire  Spring  Co., 

94  Chambers  Street,  New  York. 
OR,  SARATOGA  SPRINGS,  N,  Y. 


ADDENDA. 


abbbv  & min, 

(Successors  to  ANDREW  CLERK  & CO.,) 
Maiden  Lane,  IXTew  York 

_ IMPORTERS,  MANUFACTURERS  AND  DEALERS  IN  ’ 

Tackle. 

variety  oi Salmon  anf  Trout  Flfe^  au^Honk^16^11  +hn  Uuited  States.  Every 
Islands  Bass  Lines , Wa^eroroo^  Cutty  Hunk  and  Pasque 

Lines,  and  Fish  Hooks.  Parties  fitted  out  with  6S’  S,'k'  Lm«n  aild  Cotton 

%muB^s  andTPacific  iz  s? 

Spilt  Bamboo.  Trent  and  Salmon  Rods  and  Reel,  a Specialty. 


Massachusetts 


CENTRAL  FIRE  RELOADING-  CAPPED  CARTRIDGES, 
Interchangeable  Combination  Arms ! 


MAYNARD’S 


RIFLES  AO  SHOT  OWNS. 

Reloading-Capped  Cartridges. 

HI  Send  for  Illustrated  Circular.  t 

f/MAGSAOHUGETTe  ARMS  GOMPAHY,! 

CHICOPEE  EAILS,  MASS. 


For  Convenience,  Accuracy  and  Penetration,  Unequalled 


ADDENDA. 


S.  HEMMENWAY, 


fectly 


1 And  Manufacturer  of  TENTS  of  all 
_ kinds,  for  the  use  of  Camping  Parties. 
■_  Camp  Meetings,  t hotograpliers  and 
v Military  Encampments;  also,  Awn- 
6'  ings  of  all  kinds,  Paalins  to  cover 
v .Merchandise,  &c. 

Your  Own  Tent!— 1 he 
cost  of  hiring  three  or  four  timespays 
■ for  a Tent,  and  then,  with  care,  you 
have  on^  that  will  last  a life-time,  and 
being  yo.ur  own  you  Can  fit  it  up  to 
_ ___  _ suit  yourself.  These  Tents  are  per 

Water  and  Mildew  Proof,  and  furnished  with  Ventilators  at  each  end. 

Over  Wall  Street  Ferry  Bouse,  South  Street,  New  York. 


gy  Any  Book  or  Article 

—USED  BY— 

SPORTSMEN  and  TRAVELERS 

Furnished  to  Order  at  Pub- 
lisher’s and  Manufacturer’s 
Prices  by 

Waverley  Publishing  Company, 

SYRACUSE,  N.  Y. 


•J.  & w.  TOLLEY’S 

FINE  ENGLISH 

BREECH-LOADING  GUNS. 

These  celebrated  Weapons,  Made  to 
Order  or  from  Stock, in  every  Guage, 
V eight.  Length,  Style  and  Price,  can 
now  be  obtained  from  our  New  York 
House.  Every  Gun  being  guaranteed 
for  first-class  Materials,  Workmanship 
and  Shooting  Powers.  Sportsmen  who 
cannot  personally  inspect  our  make  ol 
Guns,  are  invited  to  send  for  an  Illus- 
trated Descriptive  Price  Sheet  to  oui 
Branch  House,  29  Maiden  Lane,  New  York. 

Manufactory,  Pioneer  Gun  Works,  St. 
Mary’s  Square,  Birmingham,  Eng  d. 


BRANDS  and  PRICES. 

Pioneer,  - $65  Gold 
Tolley,  - - 90  “ 

Standard,  - 115  “ 

National,  - 140  “ 

Challenge, -180  “ 

Paragon,  - 225  “ 


M.  W.  ROBINSON, 


SOLE  AGENT  FOR 

, J, 


Hall  & Hubbard’s  Metallic  Cartridges, 
F .Wesson’s  Rifles  and  Pistols,  The  Dex- 
ter” Single  Barrel  Shot  Gun,  &c. 

No.  79  Chamber  Street,  - - New  York. 

5^”  Send  for  Descriptive  Circular. 


FISHING-TACKLE ! ! 

Gentlemen  purchasing  Fishing  Tackle  of 

PRICHARD  BROS.,  No.  94  Fulton  St.,  N.  Y., 

Will  have  the  satisfaction  of  knowing  it  to 
be  made  by  the  most  Skillful  Workmen,  as 
well  as  Professional  Anglers,  — Medals 
having  been  awarded  to  them  at  the 
World’s  Fair  and  American  Institute. 

N.  B.— Imported  Green  Heart  Salmon 
and  Trout  Rods  of  the  very  best  make 
constantly  on  hand.  Trout  and  Salmon 
Flies  made  to  any  pattern. 


ADDENDA. 


jr 

J.  B.  CROOK  & CO., 


(ESTABLISHED  1837,) 
Manufacturers  and  Importers  of 


Rods,  Reels,  Lines, 

Hooks,  Seines, 

Nets,  Fykes, 


Sporting  Apparatus,  &c., 

At  Wholesale  and  Retail, 

50  FULTON  ST.,  New  York. 

Sole  manufacturers  of  the  celebrated 
CASTLE  CONNELL  ROD  for  SALMON, 
TROUT  AND  BLACK  BASS. 

Send  for  Descriptive  Catalogue. 


Barton  Alexander  & Waller, 

101  & 103  Duane  Street,  New  York, 

— Manufacturers  and  Importers  of— 

FISHING  TACKLE, 

And  Sportsmen’s  Goods  of  all  kinds. 

Eods,  Eeels,  Lines-  Hooks, 

ARTIFICIAL  FLIES,  &0. 

SPLIT  BAMBOO  FLY;  RODS 

of  finest  quality  a specialty. 

Guns,  Pistols,  Eifl.es,  Ammunition,  &c. 


13  Faneuil  Hall  Square,  Boston, 


— DEALERS  IN— 


Fine  Guns,  Rifles,  Fishing  Rods  I Tackle. 


ABBBIY  So  IMBRIE, 
(Successors  to  Andrew  Clerk  & Co.,) 
48  Haiden  Lane,  New  Yoik, 

Manufacturers,  Importers  and 
Dealers  in 

FI84tlffQ  TACKLE  f 

of  every  description. 

Split  Bamboo  Fly  Bods  a Specialty  I 

Celluloid  Reels,  Water-Proof  Lines,  Flies 
in  Stock  and  to  Order. 


Yaluft  Timber  Property 

- -FOR  SALE  IN- 

Hamilton  ComtyJtatB  of  Mew  York. 

The  undersigned  owns  a Tract  of  12,- 
375  Acres  Timber  Land  in  Hamilton 
County,  situated  on  Moose  River,  town 
of  Arietta.  About  one-quarter  is  PINE, 
and  three-quarters  SPRUCE  and  MAPLE. 
Will  be  sold  at  a low  price.  Apply  to 
WM.  RATNOR, 

117  William  Street, 

New  York  City. 


ADDENDA. 


“THE  LEADING  AMERICAN  NEWSPAPER." 


DAILY  CIRCULATION  OVER 

3 0,000. 


1st.  It  publishes  all  the  news. 

2d.  It  is  candid  and  independent  in  all  things. 

3d.  Its  aggregate  circulation  is  larger  than  that  of  any  other  four 
cent  morning  paper  in  New  York. 

4th.  Its  circulation,  regarding  character  as  well  as  number  of 
subscribers,  is  better  than  that  of  any  paper  in  the  country. 

5th.  It  is  growing  more  vigorously  and  increasing  in  circulation 
more  rapidly  than  any  of  its  rivals. 

The  Daily  Tribune  is  $10  per  year,  or  $1  per  month,  by  mail; 
'the  Semi-Weekly  $3  per  year,  and  the  Weekly  $2.  Reduced  rates 
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Address 

THE  TRIBUNE, 


NEW  YORK. 


